Sunflowers are the brightest stars of the garden, sparking imaginations for generations. Their sunny faces always bringing joy. There are many types of sunflowers — from small to large, yellow to red. However, there is more to sunflowers than meets the eye. Learn more sunflower facts and the symbolism behind these sunny faces.
Sunflower Facts:
Sunflowers have Greek origins.
At least their name does. Helianthus, their botanical name, comes from the Greek words for sun and flower.
Sunflowers Don’t Actually Follow the Sun
Though, their flowers move to follow the sun’s arc across the sky each day when in bud phase, most stop by the time they flower.
The record for the tallest sunflower is 30 ft 1 in
This was grown by Hans-Peter Schiffer in Germany in August 2014. He previously held the Guinness Record twice for tallest sunflower.
Sunflowers Are the Gift for the Third Wedding Anniversary
There are flowers for every wedding anniversary, and sunflowers are the third. Sunflowers symbolize loyalty and longevity. Like a marriage in its third year, the sunflower relies on its stalk for a strong foundation and its petals are vibrant and passionate.
Sunflowers Bring All Good Things
It’s no wonder why many cultures look to sunflowers for meaning, finding positivity and strength in the bold flowers that face the sun. In China, they symbolize good fortune, vitality, intelligence and happiness. Other meanings include joy, focus, healing, and warmth.
A Single Sunflower Head Can Contain Up to 2000 Seeds
These seeds are great sources of several nutrients, especially vitamin E and selenium. Harvesting your own? Roast them up!
There are about 70 different Sunflower species
And they come in all different colors — including bright yellow, copper, red, brown, orange and even beautifully bi-colored.
Sunflower Décor
In autumn, when days grow shorter, why not bring the sunshine indoors?
The warm colors immediately add brightness and warmth to any room. Whether you add a vase full of sunflowers to your living room, or one stem by the kitchen sink, they will brighten your day immeasurably.
Sunflowers are perfect plants to use in floral DIY projects. Create a natural-looking tablescape for your next dinner party with sunflowers and candles. Or maybe vintage is more your style?
If you’re feeling motivated, try our step-by-step instructions to create a gorgeous sunflower wreath to hang or use as a centerpiece. We’ve even got a back to school gift idea that’s way better than an apple.
Sunflower Care
When cutting fresh sunflowers, it’s best to cut early in the morning, before they open fully and when they are fully hydrated. If you cut them on a hot, sunny afternoon they may wilt.
Sunflowers delivered right to your door? Check the water level in the vase is at least ¾ full of cool water and add the packet of flower food included. Remove any leaves that will be underwater and use pruning shears to give them a fresh cut – one inch off the base of the stems. Put them right back into the water. Refresh the water and give them a fresh cut every three days to extend the their vase life.
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