Helianthus annuus 'Sonja®' – Early and robust sunflower for cut flowers and borders

Helianthus annuus 'Sonja®' is a mid-early, vigorous sunflower that enhances gardens, borders, and cutting gardens with its large, bright yellow flowers with a dark center. This selection was specially developed for cut flowers, ornamental plantings, and cutting gardens, thanks to its sturdy stems, regular blooms, and compact growth habit.

'Sonja®' is ideal for gardeners, florists and hobby growers looking for a fast-growing, easy-care and robust sunflower with long-lasting ornamental value.

Characteristics of Helianthus annuus 'Sonja®'

This sunflower combines strength, ornamental value, and versatility. Key characteristics include:

• Large, bright yellow flowers with a dark heart – striking in borders, cutting gardens and bouquets

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

• Semi-early flowering – flowers open early in the season and bloom profusely

• 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, 'Sonja®' offers long-lasting ornamental value and ecological benefits, making it a versatile choice for various applications.

Use and application

Helianthus annuus 'Sonja®' can be used in several ways:

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

• Borders and flowerbeds – tall, strong plants provide structure and 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

Because of its early flowering and abundant flower production, 'Sonja®' combines perfectly with other summer bloomers such as asters, cosmos and rudbeckia, for a harmonious garden appearance.

Growth habit and care

Helianthus annuus 'Sonja®' is a sun-loving annual that grows best in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. It 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 for windy locations or very tall specimens

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

• Remove wilted flowers to encourage new blooms

With the right care, 'Sonja®' offers a long flowering period from mid-summer to early autumn.

Features at a glance

• Latin name: Helianthus annuus 'Sonja®'

• Type: Semi-early, annual sunflower

• Color: Bright yellow 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 'Sonja®'?

This selection combines ornamental value, robustness, and ecological benefits. Advantages of 'Sonja®' include:

• Large, bright yellow flowers with a dark heart for a striking effect

• Tall, sturdy stems suitable for cut flowers

• Semi-early flowering for an early and rich flower display

• Pollen-rich flowers attract bees and other pollinators

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

This makes Helianthus annuus 'Sonja®' an ideal choice for gardeners, hobby growers and florists who want to harvest and use striking, bee-friendly sunflowers.