Helianthus annuus 'Titan' extra-tall

The 'Titan' extra-tall Giant Sunflower is a variety of Helianthus annuus that is particularly tall and has enormous flowers. It is an improvement on the 'Uniflorus Giganteus' variety. This annual plant grows very quickly and has thick, strong stems that reach a height of 3.50m (11ft). Its flower reaches a diameter of 40cm (16in). Titan seeds are the largest and are edible.

Helianthus annuus is known by various names, including Sunflower, Helianthus, and Sun. Before flowering, the plant optimizes its growth by following the sun's path. This phenomenon, called heliotropism, has given rise to some of its common names. The Sunflower belongs to the Asteraceae family. This large annual plant has a controversial origin, but it is native to the American continent. Its flower resembles a giant daisy. Its flowering inevitably attracts the attention of neighbours and visitors. The flowers are compound heads with a corolla of golden yellow petals surrounding an orange and brown centre. The 'Titan extra-tall' variety reaches a height of 3.50m (11ft). It produces an enormous flower with a diameter of 40cm (16in). This magnificent flowering spreads from July to September. The leaves, which are 10-30cm (4-12in) long, heart-shaped, and toothed, are a medium green colour.

The 'Titan' extra-tall Giant Sunflower can be sown directly in place, preferably at the back of a border. We recommend staggering your sowings to enjoy beautiful, young flowers regularly until autumn. It towers over other plants and flowers and catches the eye; it enjoys the company of tall grasses and wild plants. Sunflowers love sunny locations and rich, fresh soil.

Sunflowers in the kitchen:

The buds, petals, and seeds are edible. Add some petals to a green salad for color contrast and their nutty flavour. The green buds can be blanched, then sautéed in garlic butter. Their flavour is similar to that of Jerusalem artichokes. The flesh of the seed can be eaten raw or roasted.

An ecological asset:
Throughout the summer, the melliferous flowers of Sunflowers attract pollinating insects and butterflies to your garden. It's a great way to improve your garden's ecosystem and promote fruit and vegetable production in your vegetable patch.
The oil-rich seeds are particularly appreciated by birds (Parrots, Tits, Goldfinches...). At the end of flowering, harvest them to make some happy during the winter scarcity.