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Annual Biennial

Helianthus annuus 'Kong'
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

sunflower 'Kong'

A vigorous, upright annual that can reach up to 4m high, with large, oval to heart-shaped, hairy, toothed green leaves. Branching stems bear bright yellow flowers up to 18cm across in summer

Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Yellow Green
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

Helianthus can be tall, erect annuals, tuberous or rhizomatous perennials, with coarse simple leaves and large daisy-like flower-heads

Name status

Unresolved

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Sunflowers generally need a long hot summer to flower well. May need support. This is a pollen-free cultivar, so good for cut flowers, though other cultivars may be better for pollinators

Propagation

Propagate by seed or division. Divide established clumps every 2-4 years to both increase plants and retain vigour. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

Cut back after flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases

Get involved

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