Helianthus annuus 'Ms Mars'
sunflower 'Ms Mars'
A stout, upright, branching annual with purple-flushed leaves, buds and stems, growing to about 60cm. The flowers are 15cm across with a very dark red centre and rosy pink petals tipped with cream, produced in late summer and early autumn
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Purple | Green Purple | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Purple | Cream Pink Red | Green Purple | |
| Autumn | Green Purple | Cream Pink Red | Green Purple | |
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Helianthus can be tall, erect annuals, tuberous or rhizomatous perennials, with coarse simple leaves and large daisy-like flower-heads
- Name status
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, neutral to alkaline, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun
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
- Patio and container plants
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead to prolong flowering
Pests
Diseases
May be affected by powdery mildews
Get involved
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