Sunflowers are some of the most beautiful and unique flowers in the world. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each with its own unique features.
This blog post will take a closer look at the different types of sunflowers and the features that make them stand out.
We’ll also discuss how to care for these vibrant blooms and the best ways to showcase them in your garden or home.
So whether you’re a seasoned gardener or simply looking to learn more about sunflowers, read on to discover the wonders of these amazing different types of sunflowers.
1. Russian Mammoth
The Russian Mammoth sunflower is one of the most popular varieties of the different types of sunflowers.
This type of sunflower can grow up to 15 feet tall, with flowers with a diameter of up to 16 inches!
The leaves of the Russian Mammoth are large and can measure up to 10 inches in length. This sunflower grows in full sun and prefers moist soil.
When it comes to harvesting, the best time to collect its seeds is when the heads turn yellow. Russian Mammoth sunflowers are known for their large, bright yellow petals and dark center.
These flowers attract birds, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to your garden. They also make great cut flowers, adding vibrant colour to any arrangement.
Additionally, these sunflowers are drought-tolerant and will continue to bloom even in drier conditions. Planting several in a group can create a beautiful, eye-catching display in your garden.
2. American Giant
The American Giant sunflower is one of the most iconic varieties of this beautiful flower. Native to North America, it is the tallest sunflower species, reaching heights of up to 10 feet or more.
It features a classic yellow hue with dark brown or black centers, and its large size makes it an impressive addition to any garden or landscape.
The American Giant can produce up to 50 blooms on each stem, attracting bees and other pollinators.
This makes them one of the different types of sunflowers that are an important part of any eco-friendly garden.
These sunflowers are also easy to grow and maintain, requiring only regular watering and occasional fertilizing for optimal growth.
3. Sundance Kid
The Sundance Kid is a type of sunflower that stands out from the other types of sunflowers. This tall, brown-eyed sunflower can grow up to five feet tall and has a large, showy bloom.
It produces large yellow, single or semi-double flowers and is known for its thick stems and dark foliage.
The center of each flower head also turns into a large seed head, which can be used to make sunflower seeds.
With its unique features, the Sundance Kid is a popular choice among gardeners and those looking to add some variety to their gardens.
When it comes to caring, the Sundance Kid is easy to maintain. It grows best in full sun and requires well-drained soil and plenty of water.
This sunflower can be easily propagated through seed, so you can have plenty of blooms for your garden.
With its long stems and showy blossoms, the Sundance Kid makes a great addition to any outdoor space or garden.
4. Suntastic Yellow with Black Center
This sunflower variety is easily recognizable with its bright yellow petals and jet-black center. It is a beautiful addition to any garden and will stand out with its striking colours.
This sunflower can reach up to 8 feet in height and has a bloom that can last for over three months.
The large flower heads can reach up to 9 inches in diameter, making them a great addition to any outdoor space. Plant this variety in well-drained soil in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Water regularly, but be sure to avoid over-watering as this could lead to root rot. With proper care, you can expect an abundance of cheerful yellow blooms.
These sunflowers are perfect for cutting and creating stunning floral arrangements or adding a splash of colour to your garden.
They attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which will benefit your garden in the long run. Additionally, their large size makes them an ideal backdrop plant in any garden setting.
If you want to add fun and colour to your garden, this is the perfect choice for you from this list of different types of sunflowers!
5. Earthwalker
Earthwalker sunflowers are a variety of Helianthus annuus, also known as common sunflowers.
This particular variety has distinctive bright yellow petals forming a central disk and smaller ray florets.
The tall plants can grow up to seven feet tall and produce an abundance of seeds that can be used for food or bird feed.
The Earthwalker variety is aesthetically pleasing and resistant to diseases and pests, making it a popular choice for gardeners.
Its vibrant yellow petals make it a great choice for creating a sunny border or focal point in any garden.
6. Ms. Mars
Ms. Mars is a unique variety of different types of sunflowers with two different types of blooms. It has a single yellow-tipped flower with a white center and multiple yellow petals that give it an interesting contrast.
This variety is known for its long vase life, making it ideal for creating beautiful bouquets.
Ms. Mars is a relatively low-maintenance variety and will bring plenty of joy to its owners due to its lovely colour combination and long life span.
7. Moulin Rouge
Moulin Rouge is one of the most popular of the different types of sunflowers. It has large flower heads measuring up to 8 inches in diameter, and its petals are deep red-orange. It is a multi-headed variety that is quite tall, growing up to six feet high.
This type of sunflower is a favourite among gardeners because of its vibrant colour and striking beauty.
It is also very easy to care for and maintain. It will thrive in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
The Moulin Rouge can be grown in full sun and partial shade conditions, making it an ideal choice for any garden. Its blooms will last for several weeks throughout the summer months.
8. Strawberry Blonde
The Strawberry Blonde sunflower is a unique variety of the traditional sunflower, offering a bright blend of red and yellow that is truly unique.
Its petals are a mixture of yellow and reddish-orange with golden centers, creating a stunning combination that adds an extra splash of colour to any garden.
It can grow up to 8 feet tall, and its large size makes it ideal for attracting birds and bees.
The blossoms are 6 to 8 inches wide, making them great for cutting and using in arrangements or for drying and saving for winter months. This sunflower is easy to grow and will bloom from summer through fall.
9. Skyscraper
Skyscraper is not left out of our list of different types of sunflowers; it was developed by hybridizing different sunflower varieties.
It has tall, strong stalks that can reach up to 8 feet in height and produce large, beautiful blooms.
The flower heads of this type of sunflower are huge and can span up to 12 inches in diameter. Furthermore, its petals are a rich, creamy yellow colour with a dark brown center.
This unique flower is perfect for adding dramatic height and beauty to any garden. It is best grown in full sun and rich soil for the best results.
10. Sunforest Mix
Sunforest Mix is a type of sunflower with long stems and large yellow-orange flower heads. This variety is most easily recognized for its bright, vibrant colours and long, willowy petals.
Sunforest Mix sunflowers are a popular choice for gardeners and florists alike, as they offer plenty of stunning visual impact.
This variety has the potential to reach heights of up to five feet, and its long stems make them perfect for displaying in bouquets. The flowers can also be used in arrangements or vases or enjoyed in the garden.
In addition to their attractive appearance, Sunforest Mix sunflowers are also quite hardy and easy to maintain.
They are one of the different types of sunflowers that can thrive in sunny spots with well-drained soil, making them a great choice for novice gardeners.
This variety of sunflowers can also be grown in large numbers, and when planted together, they can create a dramatic effect that will draw attention from anyone who passes by.
As an added bonus, the Sunforest Mix sunflowers are also known for attracting birds and bees to the garden!
11. Slender Sunflower
This variety of sunflowers is native to the western United States and can reach heights of up to 6 feet. Its slender, branched stems are covered in clusters of small yellow blooms that appear in late summer or early fall.
It is usually found growing in wet areas such as near streams or lakes, making it a great choice for naturalizing areas or adding interest to rain gardens.
This sunflower is highly attractive to bees and other beneficial pollinators, and its seeds provide a valuable food source for birds.
12. Italian White
Italian White sunflowers are an impressive variety of Helianthus annuus. These large, ivory-white flowers are 6-10 inches in size and produce white petals with a yellow-green center.
The centers of the flowers can be very showy, and the outside petals often curl back, revealing the yellow-green center of the flower.
These are ideal for gardeners who want a subtle, beautiful flower that adds elegance to their garden or bouquets.
The Italian White sunflower blooms from mid-summer to early fall and is great for cutting. Above all, it is included in our list of the different types of sunflowers.
13. Teddy Bear
Teddy Bear sunflowers are a unique and popular variety of sunflower that features large, showy petals.
This type of sunflower is one of the taller varieties, growing to between 3-4 feet tall. Its leaves are long, dark green, and serrated.
The bright yellow blooms of Teddy Bear sunflowers consist of many tiny petals, giving them a fluffy, teddy bear-like appearance.
This variety of sunflowers can produce up to 15 flowers in a single season, and its blooms last for several weeks.
The Teddy Bear sunflower is a great choice for gardeners who love colour and texture in their gardens.
14. Neglected Sunflower
Helianthus neglectus, also known as “Neglected Sunflower,” is a sunflower found throughout the eastern United States and Canada.
It grows up to 3 feet tall and blooms from July to October with yellow or white petals surrounding a dark center.
These sunflowers are usually found in moist soils near streambanks, roadsides, or old fields and can spread rapidly if left unchecked.
However, the Neglected Sunflower is not commonly cultivated and is often overlooked in favour of more popular sunflower varieties.
The Neglected Sunflower is an excellent choice for attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds due to its abundant nectar production.
This species is also drought-tolerant, making it an ideal choice for home gardens that receive less water.
In addition to its attractive flowers, the Neglected Sunflower produces edible tubers which can be harvested after the bloom has died.
The tubers can be roasted and added to salads, soups, and side dishes for a unique flavour.
Despite its name, this neglected species of the different types of sunflower is a great choice for any garden.
Its drought tolerance and abundant nectar make it a great choice for attracting pollinators, and its edible tubers make it an interesting addition to any dish.
15. Chianti
We are still discussing the list of different types of sunflowers, and Chianti is another. Chianti sunflowers are a beautiful variety of sunflowers with dark red petals and a bright yellow center.
They are very popular in home gardens and flower beds because of their unique colours and tall, robust stems.
Chianti sunflowers can reach up to 3 feet in height and produce large, yellow blooms that are both striking and eye-catching.
This variety of sunflowers is also resistant to pests and diseases, making them an easy addition to any garden.
The Chianti sunflower is a great choice for those looking to add a splash of colour to their garden or landscaping.
16. Showy Sunflower
This is a tall, showy sunflower with distinctive white petals and a dark center disk. Growing to a height of five to eight feet, the plants can bear single or double blooms from mid-summer to autumn.
Showy sunflowers are easy to grow and tolerate most soil types, although they prefer well-drained soil.
They can be used as a backdrop in flower beds or planted as an accent plants in containers or along fences.
They also attract pollinators and other beneficial insects, such as butterflies and bees. Plant Showy sunflowers in full sun for best results.
Showy sunflowers have become a popular choice for both ornamental and culinary uses. The flowers are edible and have a slightly sweet flavour, while the seeds are often used in cooking and baking.
These sunflowers are also great for cut flower arrangements and make lovely additions to bouquets and table decorations.
Showy sunflowers are an excellent choice for those looking for a beautiful, easy-to-grow flower with multiple uses.
17. Rayless Sunflower
This small sunflower, also known as the “Rayless Sunflower,” is native to the southeastern United States.
It is a low-growing annual that typically reaches heights of 1-2 feet and spreads up to 10 inches across. Its stems are hairy and covered in gray-green leaves.
12-20 yellowish-green ray flowers surround the bright yellow flower head. The plant on our list of different types of sunflowers is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun and dry, sandy soils.
Its deep roots make it a great choice for dry landscapes and container gardens. It’s an excellent choice for adding colour and texture to garden beds and borders.
This sunflower can also be used to attract butterflies and bees to your yard.
18. Elf Sunflower
Elf Sunflowers are a variety of Helianthus annuus, whose name comes from the plant’s size.
These sunflowers are much smaller than other varieties and have shorter stems, making them ideal for indoor growing.
The blooms of Elf Sunflowers tend to be yellow with brown centers, and the petals usually curl inward.
These plants are also known for their high levels of drought resistance, and they can survive in arid climates without any extra water.
In addition to their unique size and colour, Elf Sunflowers are also extremely resistant to disease and pests.
This makes them a great choice for gardens that are prone to pest infestations or other diseases.
Moving on, they are also very easy to grow, with just basic soil and sunlight needed to get these plants to thrive.
Plus, they look beautiful in bouquets, as their small size and colours make them eye-catching.
Overall, Elf Sunflowers, one of the different types of sunflowers, are a great addition to any garden.
19. Sungold Sunflower
There are many different types of sunflowers, and the Helianthus annuus “Sungold Sunflower” is one of the most popular and easily recognizable varieties.
The bright yellow petals surround a deep brown center and reach heights up to 6 feet tall.
They are perfect for adding colour to any garden or flower arrangement and will bloom from July to September.
This type of sunflower also has good resistance to drought, so it’s an ideal choice for gardens in dry climates. Plant them in full sun in well-drained soil and enjoy their vibrant colours all summer!
20. Little Becka Hybrid
This sunflower variety is a hybrid of two popular species, Helianthus annuus, and Helianthus maximiliani.
It is a mid-sized sunflower with a very light yellow colour, and the flowers are quite large and showy.
Its flowering period is longer than most sunflower varieties, and it can reach heights of up to 8 feet tall.
The Little Becka Hybrid is a great option for those looking to add long-lasting beauty to their garden! If you seek to know the different types of sunflowers, here’s one!
21. Pacino Cola
The Pacino Cola sunflower is a tall variety of sunflower that stands at 6 feet or taller, making it one of the tallest varieties of the different types of sunflowers available.
It produces large, showy blooms with rich, deep yellow petals and chocolate-brown centers. The seeds are also edible and are perfect for baking and eating.
These flowers are known for their hardiness and can survive hot and cold temperatures.
They also tend to attract birds, bees, and butterflies, making them an excellent addition to any garden. These flowers should be planted in the early spring and will bloom all summer long.
22. Cusick’s Sunflower
Helianthus cusickii is a tall sunflower variety that grows up to 8 feet tall and can be found in wetlands and along streams in western North America.
This sunflower’s yellow petals have a unique cone-like shape, and its stem is covered in short hairs.
This type of sunflower produces lots of yellow-orange seeds, which have a nutty flavour and are edible.
It is one of the different types of sunflowers, and its blooms are very showy and attract various birds and butterflies.
Cusick’s sunflowers are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. They prefer full sun and moist, well-drained soil.
If left to their own devices, these sunflowers can become quite unruly and take up too much space, so regular pruning is recommended.
Additionally, since this type of sunflower is quite tall, staking or other forms of support may be necessary to prevent the stems from snapping under their own weight.
23. Dwarf Sunflowers
One of the different types of sunflowers on this list is Dwarf Sunflowers, perfect for a smaller garden or flower bed.
They usually grow to around two feet tall, although some may reach up to three feet. Dwarf sunflowers come in various colours, including yellow, orange, red, and bicolor.
These small but mighty sunflowers can be planted in clusters for a colourful show or planted alone for a more subtle display.
These cheerful flowers are perfect for adding a splash of sunshine to any garden. One of the most popular varieties of dwarf sunflowers is the “Teddy Bear.”
This unique flower has yellow petals and a large, brown center disk. The name comes from its resemblance to a cute teddy bear!
Other popular varieties of dwarf sunflowers include “Italian White” and “Sunforest Mix.”
Whether you want to create a vibrant display or add some cheerful accents, dwarf sunflowers will surely bring a smile to your garden.
24. Resindot Sunflower
The Resindot Sunflower is an unusual and attractive variety of sunflower. This type of flower has deep yellow or orange petals with a reddish tinge near the center.
It grows best in warmer climates and prefers full sun exposure, though it can tolerate partial shade.
It will reach heights of up to 2 feet tall, with flower heads that can be up to 8 inches across.
The Resindot Sunflower is an excellent choice for borders and garden beds, as it is an easy-to-grow plant and looks beautiful when in bloom.
There are still more different types of sunflowers coming up on this list. Do not stop reading!
25. Dwarf Sunflowers
Dwarf Sunflowers are a popular and versatile type on this list of different types of sunflowers.
They are low-maintenance and come in various bright colours, making them an ideal choice for adding colour to your garden.
Dwarf Sunflowers usually grow between 1-2 feet tall and have an average life span of two years.
The flower heads range in size from 3-5 inches in diameter, depending on the variety. Some popular varieties include Dwarf Lemon, Dwarf Red Velvet, and Dwarf Teddy Bear.
Dwarf Sunflowers are perfect for container gardens, small spaces, and landscape borders, where their compact size will easily fit.
26. Resindot Sunflower
This type of sunflower is also known as the “Pinecone Sunflower” due to its unique shape. This flower grows wild in prairies, meadows, and woodland edges in the midwestern United States.
It has lance-shaped leaves and bright yellow daisy-like flowers that are 1-2 inches in diameter. They are a bit shorter than other sunflowers and bloom from July to September.
They can be an eye-catching addition to any garden and are relatively easy to care for. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
27. Prairie Sunflower
Helianthus petiolaris, commonly known as Prairie Sunflower, is a type of sunflower native to the prairies of North America.
This wildflower grows up to 4 feet tall, with bright yellow flowers up to 4 inches in diameter. It has long stems and long, narrow leaves that are grey-green in colour.
Prairie Sunflower, blooms from mid-summer to early fall, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees.
Flowers are also attractive to birds, and the plant is an important food source for many species. Prairie Sunflower is an easy-to-grow wildflower, making it a great addition to any landscape.
28. Stiff Sunflower
This hardy sunflower is native to the midwestern United States and is most commonly found in dry, open areas.
It typically grows 3-5 feet tall and has yellow, daisy-like flowers that usually have 8-10 petals.
The flowers often have reddish markings on the back of the petals. This sunflower attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your garden.
It is one of the different types of sunflowers, also a good choice for growing in containers or as a border plant.
29. Pecos Sunflower
The Helianthus paradoxus “Pecos Sunflower” is a sunflower species native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
It is an herbaceous annual that grows up to 2.5 meters in height and has large yellow flowers with white-tipped petals.
The Pecos sunflower is drought-tolerant and thrives in arid climates, making it ideal for desert gardens.
The flower is popular among gardeners due to its showy blooms and long flowering period. It’s also a great choice for meadow gardens and can be easily grown from seed.
It’s easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance, making it a great choice for novice gardeners.
30. Western Sunflower
The Helianthus occidentalis, also known as the Western sunflower, is native to the central and western United States.
It grows to 6 feet tall and has a single flower head with yellow petals surrounding a dark center.
This variety of sunflowers is drought-resistant, requiring very little water and growing in almost any soil type.
The Western sunflower, which is also one of the different types of sunflowers, has been used in many natural dyes due to its vibrant colours.
Its strong root system can help prevent soil erosion. The blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
This type of sunflower is known for its long flowering period, with some varieties blooming for up to six months in the summer. Its large seed heads provide food for birds and other animals.
The Western sunflower is excellent for cut flowers, providing bright colours and a long vase life.
It also makes a great companion plant for vegetables, as it attracts beneficial insects that help protect crops from pests.
31. Schweinitz’s Sunflowers
This sunflower variety is one of the different types of sunflowers with very thin petals, which are long and have a rich yellow colour.
It is native to the Appalachian Mountains and is considered an endangered species. The flowers grow in clusters of six to eight flowers and bloom for about three weeks.
This type of sunflower grows best in well-drained soils with full sun. It is a great addition to any flower bed or meadow.
32. Jerusalem Artichoke
The Helianthus tuberosus “Jerusalem Artichoke” is a type of sunflower that produces edible tubers.
It is one of the oldest cultivated plants in North America and was brought to Europe from the New World.
The Jerusalem artichoke is a perennial, growing up to 2m tall and producing daisy-like yellow flowers.
This type, on our list of different types of sunflowers, has a unique flavour similar to an artichoke.
The tubers can be eaten raw, boiled, or roasted and are often used as an alternative to potatoes. They can also be pickled, used in salads, or even turned into flour.
This type of sunflower is great for edible landscaping, adding height and beauty to the garden.
33. Giant Sunflowers
Helianthus giganteus is a large, eye-catching variety of sunflowers, boasting an average height of 10 to 12 feet.
This type of sunflower has a long stem and large, bright yellow petals surrounding a darker, chocolate-brown center.
They are often referred to as the “Russian Mammoth” sunflower and have been grown in Europe since the early 19th century.
These flowers are mostly used for ornamental purposes but also produce edible seeds that can be used for baking or bird feed.
Giant sunflowers tend to attract birds and butterflies to gardens, making them a great addition to any outdoor space.
34. Maximilian Sunflower
Maximilian sunflowers are tall and spindly, with bright yellow petals surrounding a dark center.
They are ideal for planting in fields and along roadsides due to their tendency to self-sow and grow in large numbers.
These different types of sunflowers can reach up to nine feet in height, with each flower head measuring up to six inches in diameter.
Maximilian sunflowers attract birds and bees, making them an excellent choice for gardeners wanting to increase pollination.
They are also popular as cut flowers, with their vibrant petals lasting up to two weeks after being cut. Maximilian sunflowers are perfect for those looking to add a splash of colour to a large area.
35. Swamp Sunflower
The Helianthus angustifolius is also known as the Swamp Sunflower and is a species of a perennial flowering plant.
It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is native to wetlands throughout North America. This sunflower typically grows in full sun and can reach heights up to 5 feet tall.
The flowers are yellow-gold in colour and have a single row of ray florets around the central disc.
The flowers bloom from midsummer through late fall, providing a beautiful splash of colour during this time of year.
The Swamp Sunflower makes a great addition to any garden or outdoor space, especially when planted in large groups.
36. Silverleaf Sunflower
Helianthus argophyllus is an annual sunflower that grows 2 to 4 feet tall and bears a single flower. It has distinctive silver-green foliage, which gives the plant its common name.
The flower heads are around 5 inches in diameter and have bright yellow ray florets surrounding a darker center disc of tiny black and yellow flowers.
As the flower matures, it dries, and seeds are produced. Unlike other different types of sunflowers, the seeds of this variety are edible and can be used as bird seed or ground for flour.
Helianthus argophyllus can grow in moist soils in fields and meadows and in disturbed areas such as along roadsides and construction sites.
37. Appalachian Sunflower
The Appalachian Sunflower, or Helianthus atrorubens, is a species of sunflower native to North America.
It is usually found in wetland and prairie habitats and is a great addition to gardens and landscaping.
These sunflowers typically grow to heights of three to five feet and can reach up to eight feet in some cases.
The flowers range from a deep yellow-orange to dark red-brown colour, and the petals often have dark red or purple edges.
Appalachian Sunflowers are excellent for providing summer and fall colour in gardens and attracting pollinators.
38. Lakeside Sunflower
The Helianthus carnosus, also known as the “Lakeside Sunflower,” is native to the eastern United States.
This sunflower is a medium-sized annual plant with a single stem that can reach up to 4 feet in height.
The flowers are 2 to 4 inches in diameter and have yellow petals that are sometimes tinged with brown.
The Lakeside Sunflower blooms from July through September and prefers dry, sunny locations.
Compared with the other different types of sunflowers, this is a great choice for those looking to attract butterflies and bees.
It is also a good plant for naturalizing and can be used to provide nectar for birds. This sunflower species is drought-tolerant and requires little maintenance.
However, it should be kept away from high humidity and windy areas to ensure that it stays healthy and blooms properly.
Overall, the Lakeside Sunflower is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a cheerful and vibrant addition to their garden or landscape.
Conclusion
Sunflowers are some of the most beautiful and recognizable flowers in the world. With over 70 species, there are a variety of different types of sunflowers, each with its own unique characteristics.
No two sunflower varieties look exactly alike, from their height to the size of their blooms to the colour of their petals. There you have it, then!
This list is an excellent place to start when deciding which sunflower varieties would thrive in your region and fit into your garden, even if we couldn’t possibly cover every species and variety of sunflower. Happy gardening!
