Helianthus annuus 'Ms Mars'
sunflower 'Ms Mars'
A stout, upright, branching annual with purple-flushed leaves, buds and stems, growing to about 60cm. The flowers are 15cm across with a very dark red centre and rosy pink petals tipped with cream, produced in late summer and early autumn
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green Purple | Green Purple | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Green Purple | Cream Pink Red | Green Purple | |
Autumn | Green Purple | Cream Pink Red | Green Purple | |
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Helianthus can be tall, erect annuals, tuberous or rhizomatous perennials, with coarse simple leaves and large daisy-like flower-heads
- Name status
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, neutral to alkaline, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division. Divide established clumps every 2-4 years to both increase plants and retain vigour. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Wildlife gardens
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead to prolong flowering
Pests
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases
Get involved
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