Some of the taller sunflowers can look out of place in a herbaceous border, but the airy, multi-branched form of Helianthus debilis pairs beautifully with other perennials. Sunflower ‘Soluna Bronze’ is a choice variety, injecting more warmth into the colour palette than the soft yellows of other debilis cultivars. The 3-inch flowers come in shifting shades of orange to bronze, enhanced by a dark chocolate centre. The well-branched, graceful plants produce masses of flowerheads, blooming freely all summer long so there will be plenty enough for both your border and vase displays. Height: 120cm (47in). Spread: 60cm (24in).
Sowing Information
Sow early spring to early summer outdoors where they are to flower. Prepare the ground well and rake to a fine tilth before sowing. Sow 12mm (½in) deep in rows 30cm (12in) apart. Germination usually takes around 21 days. The seed can also be sown indoors in early spring for earlier flowers. Sow the seed individually in 7.5cm (3in) pots. Germination takes 1-2 weeks at 20C (70F).
When large enough to handle, thin out the seedlings to 30cm (12in) apart. For indoor sowing, gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost has gone.
