Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' – Fiery red sunflower for borders and cut flowers

Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' is a spectacular annual sunflower that enhances gardens, borders, and cutting gardens with its fiery red flowers and striking dark centers. This selection is ideal for cut flowers and ornamental plantings, thanks to its sturdy stems, compact branching, and long-lasting blooms.

'Ring of Fire' is perfect for amateur gardeners and florists looking for a striking, low-maintenance sunflower that offers both ornamental value and ecological benefits.

Characteristics of Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire'

This sunflower stands out for its strength, color, and versatility. Key characteristics include:

• Fiery red flowers with a dark heart – striking in borders, cut flower gardens and bouquets

• Sturdy, tall stems – ideal for cut flowers with long-lasting vase life

• Prolific flowering – multiple flowers per plant for a full and colorful appearance

• Pollen-rich flowers – attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators

• Single to lightly branched stems – suitable for both ornamental plantings and cutting gardens

Thanks to these properties, 'Ring of Fire' offers long-lasting ornamental value and ecological benefits, making it a versatile choice for various applications.

Use and application

Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' can be used in several ways:

• Cut flowers – large, sturdy flowers make the plant ideal for bouquets and flower arrangements

• Borders and flowerbeds – tall plants add structure and striking colour accents

• Pick-a-Pick Gardens – perfect for hobby gardeners who want to harvest long-lasting, decorative flowers

• Bee-friendly gardens – flowers attract pollinators and promote biodiversity

Its fiery red color and prolific flower production make 'Ring of Fire' a perfect companion for other summer bloomers such as asters, cosmos, and rudbeckia, creating a harmonious garden look with striking color accents.

Growth habit and care

Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' is a sun-loving annual that grows best in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. The plant develops sturdy stems and requires regular watering during dry spells.

Care tips

• Sow indoors before the last frost or directly outdoors after the last frost

• Planting distance: approximately 50–60 cm for optimal air circulation and sturdy stems

• Support may be necessary in windy locations or very tall plants

• Regular watering and fertilizing promotes healthy growth and long-lasting flowering

• Remove wilted flowers to encourage new blooms

With proper care, 'Ring of Fire' offers a long flowering period from mid-summer to early autumn.

Features at a glance

• Latin name: Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire'

• Type: Annual sunflower

• Color: Fiery red with dark heart

• Flower shape: Large daisy-like flower

• Plant structure: Tall, sturdy stems, single to lightly branched

• Flowering: Summer to early autumn

• Location: Full sun

• Soil: Well-drained, nutritious

• Application: Borders, cut flowers, cut flower gardens, bee-friendly gardens

• Ecological: Pollen-rich flowers, attractive to pollinators

Why choose Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire'?

This selection combines ornamental value, robustness, and ecological benefits. Benefits of 'Ring of Fire' include:

• Large, fiery red flowers for a striking effect

• Tall, sturdy stems suitable for cut flowers

• Richly flowering with multiple flowers per plant

• Pollen-rich flowers attract bees and other pollinators

• Versatile applications in borders, cutting gardens and cut flower production

Helianthus annuus 'Ring of Fire' is therefore a perfect choice for gardeners, hobby growers, and florists who want to harvest and use striking, bee-friendly sunflowers.