Everything you need to know about sunflowers
Is there a happier flower than the sunflower? This cheerful bloom brings joy in abundance, emulating glorious, golden rays of sunshine in shape, shade and season. Blooming during Summer and early Autumn, sunflowers are synonymous with hope and optimism, making them a wonderful mood-boosting gift for a loved one, or oneself.
Are there different types of sunflower?
Yes, there are around 70 types of sunflower species, which fall into the genus ‘helianthus’. The common sunflower is, unsurprisingly, the one most of us recognise, with vibrant yellow petals and fluffy, brown disc florets (a.k.a the centre). Though similar in shape, different sunflower types will vary in petal and disc floret size. Maximilian sunflowers, for example, have small centres and long, narrow petals. Sunflowers can also vary in colour – Moulin Rouge sunflowers are a deep burgundy shade, while Strawberry Blonde sunflowers have multi-coloured petals that fade from pink to white.Where are sunflowers from?
Sunflowers are native to North America, but they have been cultivated across the world for millennia. The bloom is particularly popular in Russia and Ukraine, where it is grown for oil production, as well as Argentina, Turkey and Romania. It is the national flower of Ukraine.What is the meaning behind gifting sunflowers?
This joyful bloom is bursting with positive symbolism. Sunflowers are most often associated with happiness, thanks to their cheerful hue and sunshine shape, but they’re also considered an emblem of admiration, loyalty and strength. They are generally thought to be a symbol of optimism, making them a brilliant, uplifting bloom for a birthday, congratulations or 'get well soon' gift.How to keep sunflowers fresher for longer
With the right care and attention, cut sunflowers can last anywhere between six to 12 days in a vase. If you’re wondering how to look after sunflowers, simply follow these sunflower care tips.1. Trim the stems by 1-2 inches at a 45-degree angle, to help your blooms absorb water. Sunflowers have thick, hardy stems and so you’ll need a pair of strong, sharp secateurs to cut through them.
2. Remove any leaves that may be below the waterline, to avoid building up bacteria that can shorten the lifespan of your blooms.
3. Select a vase with a wide opening to allow air to flow through easily, and clean it well before filling it with fresh water. If your flowers arrive with flower food, add this to the water before placing your stems.
4. Once you’ve placed your flowers in the vase, be sure to keep an eye on the water levels and refresh it with new water every couple of days.
5. If your sunflowers are drooping in the vase, this means they’re not getting enough water. Refill the vase with cool, fresh water and give your stems another snip to help them absorb it more easily.
Where should you display your sunflowers?
To help keep your sunflowers alive, place them in a cool, shady spot away from direct sunlight. Try to avoid spaces where there may be fluctuating temperatures, such as near draughts or radiators. These tall stems will look great placed on a coffee table, sideboard or side table.Are sunflowers pet friendly?
Yes, sunflowers are completely non-toxic to all pets, making them the perfect pet-friendly gift for loved ones with four-legged friends.Do sunflowers stain?
Yes, the pollen from sunflowers can stain fabrics and surfaces. The best way to deal with a pollen stain is to act quickly and avoid touching the pollen or getting it wet, as this can aggravate the issue. Instead, try shaking the fabric to remove the pollen or using sellotape or a vacuum on harder surfaces.Alternatives to sunflowers
If you can’t find any sunflowers or they currently aren’t in season, there are a few alternatives that will bring you the same cheer as the sunny bloom. Gerberas, zinnias and marigolds mirror the sunshine shape of this positive flower, bringing a burst of cheer to your home.Feeling inspired? Take a look at our flower collection for more mood-boosting blooms. We have bouquets for every occasion.