Giant Mammoth Grey Stripe Sunflower 25 Seeds Helianthus annuus
Enjoy the best of both worlds with huge sunflowers and tasty seeds for snacking. Just remember, you need to get out there and gather those grey striped sunflower seeds before the birds beat you to it! This heirloom type can grow to an impressive height.
Sunflowers got their name because they turn their heads to follow the sun. When they first start growing, they show heliotropism, which means they track the sun from east to west, but as they mature, the flowers usually end up facing directly east. These adaptable plants have a rich history, dating back to Native American tribes in North America around 2000 BC. The seeds were valued for their oil, ground into meal, or simply enjoyed as a snack; the plant also offered dye and medicinal ointments. In 18th century Europe, sunflowers became popular in gardens and for producing cooking oil; this heart-healthy oil production eventually turned into a significant industry in both Europe and America. They are often referred to as the happiest flowers, and in the language of flowers, they represent loyalty and steadfastness.
Common Names: Mammoth Grey Stripe
Latin Name: Helianthus annuus
Species Origin: US Native Wildflower
Type: Garden Flowers
Life Cycle: Annual
USDA Zones: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northern, Northeast, Southeast
Seeds per Ounce: 280
Stratification: No Stratification
Germination Ease: No Stratification
Sunlight: Full Sun
Height: 84 Inches
Color: Yellow
Bloom Season: Blooms Late Summer, Blooms Early Fall
Uses: Cut Flowers, Deer Resistant
Sowing: You should plant this grey striped sunflower seed directly outside because its long roots need room to grow and don’t like being disturbed. In late spring, once the soil warms up to 70-75 degrees F, plant a few grey striped sunflower seeds about 1" deep and 6" apart in rich, well-drained soil; they should start to sprout in 8-10 days. You might need to use netting or a screen to keep birds or animals from munching on the seeds as they start to grow; just make sure to keep the soil moist. Thin out to the strongest seedlings.
Growing: Water the seedlings now and then as they grow. Once they’re mature, these plants can handle drought pretty well, but they might need regular fertilizing for optimal growth. Be careful not to overwater, as that can lead to disease. This plant is great for attracting bees, butterflies, and birds.
Harvesting: If you want fresh flowers, cut the stems to a length of 1.5-2 feet at a 45-degree angle. Remove any leaves that will be submerged in water; put the stems in water right away. For the longest vase life, trim the stems again and change the water every three days. If you want to save the seeds for eating, first cover the heads with a protective fabric like cheesecloth to keep birds and squirrels away. As the heads mature, they’ll lose their petals; the back will change from green to brown, and the seeds will form a hard shell. Cut the heads, leaving a few inches of stem, and hang them to dry in a safe, well-ventilated spot. To collect the grey striped sunflower seeds for planting, gently rub the dried heads. Store the seeds in an airtight container.
Seed Saving: To preserve the grey striped sunflower seeds, drape the flower heads with a protective material like cheesecloth to keep birds and squirrels at bay. As the heads mature, they will shed their petals; the back will change from green to brown, and the seeds will form a tough outer layer. Cut the heads, leaving a few inches of stem attached. Hang them up to dry in a safe, well-ventilated spot. To extract the seeds, gently rub the dried heads. Keep the seeds in a cool, dry location.
