Firecracker Sunflower is a compact F1 hybrid that transforms small gardens and containers with its explosion of red and gold blooms. Growing just 24 to 36 inches tall with a naturally branching habit, this dwarf sunflower produces armfuls of flowers from seed to bloom in 50 to 60 days, making it one of the fastest routes to summer color. Hardy from zones 2 through 11 and thriving on moderate water and full sun, it tolerates drought well once established, rewarding gardeners with continuous blooms from June through November.
Full Sun
Moderate
2-11
36in H x 24in W
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High
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Red and gold flowers crowd the compact, branching stems of this hybrid, creating a dense fountain of color that thrives in containers or beds. Direct seeding after the last frost gets you to bloom faster than most sunflowers, and the dwarf stature means even small spaces deliver impact. The plants handle dry spells gracefully and attract pollinators relentlessly throughout the long growing season.
Firecracker Sunflower shines as a cut flower for fresh arrangements, especially when harvested as blooms are just beginning to open. The flowers are equally stunning dried for long-lasting displays and winter decorations; harvest fully open flowers and hang or preserve with silica gel. In the garden, it excels in containers, mass plantings, and as a pollinator magnet where bees and butterflies congregate throughout summer and fall.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Starting indoors is not recommended, as these plants dislike root disturbance. If you must transplant, sow one seed per 6-inch pot or three seeds per gallon container 3 to 4 weeks before planting out. Wait until true leaves appear before moving to larger containers, and handle seedlings carefully to minimize root damage.
When transplanting to garden beds, wait until plants have developed 3 to 4 true leaves before moving them outdoors. Harden off seedlings gradually to outdoor conditions before final planting.
Direct sow seeds after the last frost. Sow groups of 3 to 4 seeds at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch, spacing groups 8 inches apart. Seeds sprout in 5 to 14 days.
For cut flowers, harvest when blooms are just beginning to open to maximize vase life. For dried flowers, wait until blooms are completely open, then hang them to dry or preserve with silica gel for storage.
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