Taiyo Sunflower
Growing Taiyo Sunflower
‘Taiyo’ is a classic sunflower prized for its bold coloring, strong stems, and impressive flower size and one of our 2024 Free Seed varieties. Its name means “sun” in Japanese, fitting for the large 8- to 10-inch blooms with deep yellow petals surrounding rich chocolate-colored centers. Plants reach about 5 to 6 feet tall, creating a substantial but manageable garden presence.
Sow ‘Taiyo’ directly in the garden about ½ inch deep. Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart and grow in full sun. This heat- and drought-tolerant variety performs especially well in warm summer conditions.
Ready to bloom in about 75 days, enjoy the flowers as they open and reach their best display stage. Strong stems make the large blooms excellent for cutting, while mature heads also produce edible seeds.
Bold, productive, and versatile, ‘Taiyo’ is an excellent choice for borders, garden backdrops, cut flower plantings, ornamental beds, pollinator-friendly gardens, and roasted seed harvests.
- Botanical Name: Helianthus annuus
- Days to Bloom: 60–75 Days
- Sow Method: Direct Sow (Recommended)
- Sowing Depth: ½ Inch
- Plant Spacing: 12–18 Inches
- Sun Exposure: Full Sun
- Plant Height: 5–6 Feet
- Flower Color: Golden Yellow Petals With Large Dark Center
- Bloom Size: 10–12 Inches
- Growth Habit: Upright, Single-Stem
- Life Cycle: Annual
- Hardiness Zones: Grown as Annual in Zones 3–10
- Best Uses: Cut Flowers, Borders, Backdrops, Pollinator Gardens
Catalog Page: 77
Direct Sow (Recommended)
½ Inch
5–6 Feet
Helianthus annuus