Helianthus annuus Aztec Treasure Mix (Mixture of 'Teddy Bear' and 'Paquito') seeds - Sunflower

Dwarf Sunflower or Helianthus annuus 'Aztec Treasure Mix' is part of a new generation of compact Garden Sunflowers, particularly suitable for container growing and border decoration. This one offers a blend of the 'Paquito' and 'Teddy Bear' varieties. The well-branched and bushy plants, capable of flowering 60 days after sowing, bear large single or bicolour flowers in 5 shades of yellow and red, varying between plants. As a surprise, amidst this colourful mix, 'Teddy Bear' develops its double flowers resembling fluffy golden yellow pompons. This annual is sown in spring, directly in place, in any well-drained garden soil.

Helianthus annuus is none other than the famous sunflower cultivated on a large scale for the oil extracted from its seeds. This tall annual plant from the Asteraceae family, domesticated by humans for a long time, has a controversial origin, but it is known to be native to the American continent. 'Aztec Treasure Mix' is a dwarf horticultural selection, not exceeding 50 cm in all directions. The plants mostly bear single, flower head inflorescences of 15 cm in diameter. The outer ligules forming a collar will be coloured lemon yellow, golden yellow, red, purple, or a combination of yellow and red depending on the plants. There is also a double-flowered variety with bulging golden yellow pompons. Its flowering period extends from early July to September, and its very rapid growth is an asset for late planters! Under the best conditions, there are 8 weeks between sowing and the start of flowering. The strong, branched floral stems are adorned with medium green, simple, cordate (heart-shaped) leaves, alternate, except at the base where they are sometimes opposite. They are joined to the stem by a longer or shorter petiole and are rough to the touch.

Its ease of cultivation, large seeds, and small mature size appeal to children who are introduced to the joys of gardening. The 'Aztec Treasure Mix' Sunflower is particularly suitable for low beds, borders, rockeries, or large containers. It only requires sun and not too dry soil to flourish effortlessly. Its flowers also bring joy to bouquets, paired with fern leaves, Goldenrod, statice, and carnations, for example.

Before flowering, the plant optimises its growth by following the sun's path. This phenomenon, called heliotropism, has given rise to some of its common names: Heliotrope, Sunflower, Garden Sun.

Sunflower in the kitchen:

The buds, petals, and seeds are edible. Add some petals to a green salad for colour contrast and a nutty taste. Green buds can be blanched and then tossed in garlic butter. Their flavour is similar to that of Jerusalem artichokes. The seed kernel can be eaten raw or roasted.

An ecological asset:
Throughout the summer, the honey-producing flowers of Sunflowers attract pollinating insects and butterflies to your garden. A great way to improve your garden's ecosystem and promote fruit and vegetable production in your vegetable garden. The oil-rich seeds are loved by birds (Parrots, Tits, Nuthatches, Doves, Finches...). After flowering, harvest them to feed birds during winter scarcity.