Sunflower

History

First cultivated by Indigenous peoples of the Americas thousands of years ago for seed, oil, and dye.

Folklore

Young sunflower buds track the sun across the sky — a habit called heliotropism that stops once they open into full bloom.

Season

Sown in spring, blooms in high summer.

Growing

Direct sow in full sun after last frost. Stake tall varieties. Water deeply in dry spells.

Culinary use

Petals brighten salads; young buds can be steamed like artichokes; seeds toast into snacks and butters.

Flavor

Petals: nutty, mildly sweet. Seeds: rich, buttery, toasted.

Gardening tip

Plant a row for pollinators; leave the spent heads for songbirds in fall.

A small recipe

Toasted sunflower seed brittle with honey and sea salt.

A gentle note

Only use unsprayed petals from culinary varieties.

Tea pairings

• Golden Hour
• Wildflower Meadow