Chocolate Cherry sunflower is a stunning heirloom annual that transforms any garden into a dramatic display of deep burgundy and obsidian petals radiating from near-black centers. This multi-branching variety grows 6 to 7 feet tall with flower heads averaging 5 to 8 inches across, reaching maturity in 90 to 99 days. Hardy from zones 2 to 11, it thrives in full sun with moderate water and neutral soil, making it accessible to gardeners across most of North America. Some plants produce a vibrant yellow corona around the pollen disk, adding unexpected brightness to the deep color palette. Whether you're designing a dramatic cut flower display or creating garden intrigue, this heirloom delivers theatrical color that standard sunflowers simply cannot match.
Full Sun
Moderate
2-11
84in H x ?in W
Perennial
High
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The petals of Chocolate Cherry sunflower range from deep obsidian to rich chocolate and black cherry, bursting forth like a supernova against onyx centers. Some blooms surprise with a vibrant yellow ring around the pollen disk, though you may occasionally find orange-yellow or lighter color flowers mixed into your planting. The multi-branching growth habit means a single plant produces multiple flower heads, extending the visual impact throughout the season, while the substantial 5 to 8 inch flower size makes each bloom a genuine focal point.
Chocolate Cherry sunflower is prized for ornamental display and cut flower arrangements. Its dramatic dark coloring and multi-branching habit make it a top choice for garden design where you want to create visual depth and contrast. The substantial flower heads work beautifully in fresh arrangements, bringing theatrical dark tones to floral compositions that demand something beyond conventional golden yellows.
Begin seeds indoors 3 to 4 weeks before your last frost date using soil temperatures between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This timing gives transplants enough maturity to establish quickly once outdoor conditions warm.
Transplant seedlings outdoors once soil temperatures are reliably above 45 degrees Fahrenheit and frost danger has passed. Space plants 8 inches apart in rows 14 inches apart, though spacing flexibility exists depending on your garden design.
Directly sow seeds as soon as soil temperature climbs above 45 degrees Fahrenheit. These seeds germinate readily in most garden soil conditions without special preparation.
The upright multi-branching growth habit of Chocolate Cherry sunflower naturally produces multiple flower heads without intervention. Allow the plant to develop its full branching structure for maximum visual impact and multiple blooms throughout the season.
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