Helianthus annuus Russian Mammoth (Common Sunflower)
A giant variety, Helianthus annuus ‘Russian Mammoth’ (Common Sunflower) is a tall annual boasting huge flowers, up to 8-14 in. across (20-35 cm), with brilliant golden-yellow petals surrounding a dark chocolate central disk. Borne atop sturdy stalks, the impressive flower heads are attractive to bees, butterflies and birds and make a real statement in the landscape.
A giant variety, Helianthus annuus 'Russian Mammoth' (Common Sunflower) is a tall annual boasting huge flowers, up to 8-14 in. across (20-35 cm), with brilliant golden-yellow petals surrounding a dark chocolate central disk. Borne atop sturdy stalks, the impressive flower heads are attractive to bees, butterflies and birds and make a real statement in the landscape. Easy to grow and sensational at the back of a sunny border. Gardeners also harvest and roast the plump seeds.
- Typically grows up to 9-12 ft. tall (270-360 cm) and 24-48 in. wide (60-120 cm). May need support
- Prefers full sun and enjoys moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist, neutral to alkaline, well-drained soils. Site in a sheltered location, as the wind may catch the heavy heads.
- Low maintenance, this is an excellent choice for the back of perennial borders where the dazzling flowers are welcomed in any color scheme. Perfectly suited to the cutting garden, or cottage gardens.
- Attractive to bird, butterflies and bees, it is deer resistant.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 2 – 11 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones | 1 – 12 |
| Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
| Plant Type | Annuals |
| Plant Family | Helianthus – Sunflowers |
| Exposure | Full Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Mid,Late) |
| Height | 9' – 12' (270cm – 3.6m) |
| Spread | 2' – 4' (60cm – 120cm) |
| Spacing | 48″ (120cm) |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Cut Flowers, Showy |
| Tolerance | Deer |
| Attracts | Bees, Birds, Butterflies |
| Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Wall-Side Borders |
| Garden Styles | Cutting Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |