Helianthus annuus Soraya seeds - Annual sunflower

Helianthus annuus 'Soraya' is an annual sunflower of medium to large size. It develops a highly branched stem that bears 20 to 25 flowers. each 10 to 15 cm diameter flower has bright orange petals around an almost black centre. Structuring in the background of a countryside border, this annual also provides magnificent cut flowers. 'Soraya' is easy to sow and thrives in full sun in well-drained soil. It finds a place both in ornamental gardens and vegetable gardens.

'Helianthus annuus' is none other than the famous sunflower cultivated on a large scale for the oil extracted from its seeds. This large annual plant of the Asteraceae family, domesticated by humans for a long time, has a controversial origin, but it is native to the American continent. The 'Soraya' variety is a new horticultural selection for 2023, with stems naturally branching without the need for pinching. The vigorous and bushy plants reach a height of 1.20 to 1.70 m within 3 months. Each main stem produces numerous lateral branches, each carrying inflorescences. These are orange flower heads with a very dark centre. Flowering occurs from June to September-October. Under the best conditions, there is a 12-week period between sowing and the start of flowering. The foliage consists of medium green, single, cordate (heart-shaped), alternate leaves, sometimes opposite at the base. They are attached to the stem by a long or short petiole and are rough to the touch. Highly visited by pollinating insects, the flowering gives way to seeds that are food for birds and some small mammals.

The 'Soraya' Sunflower thrives in borders, preferably at the back, in sunny and well-drained soil, not too dry. In the vegetable garden, it brings an ornamental touch and possibly a bit of shade. It is easy to sow and grow, ideal for introducing children to gardening. Although an annual, it is a structuring plant, at ease in countryside gardens or wilder areas of the garden, alongside grasses, thistles, ornamental garlic, blanket flowers, for example. This variety is ideal for cut flowers thanks to its numerous flowers and good vase life.

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.

Sunflowers in the kitchen: The buds, petals, and seeds are edible. Add some petals to a green salad for colour contrast and their hazelnut taste. Green buds can be blanched, then sautéed in garlic butter. Their flavour is then similar to that of Jerusalem artichoke. 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 good way to improve the ecosystem and promote fruit and vegetable production.
The oil-rich seeds are particularly appreciated by birds (Parrots, Tits, Doves, Goldfinches, Siskins, Nuthatches, Finches …). At the end of flowering, harvest them to feed them during winter scarcity.