Moulin Rouge Sunflower

Moulin Rouge is a pollen-free sunflower that branches freely and grows to a height of 4 to 6 feet. Extremely dark in color, the burgundy-red petals become almost black close to the disc. A unique focal point in any garden. Flowers are quite large, 6-8 inches across, and stems are long enough for cutting. These pollen-less sunflowers still attract our buzzing pollinator friends. Though they don't produce pollen, and therefore are safe around those with allergies, they still provide much needed nectar for bees, native pollinators, and butterflies. Planting both types of flowers is an important part of nurturing your garden ecosystem. Hybrid.

20 seeds

PLANTING

Helianthus annuus

Annual 

Germination:  7-14 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 70-75ºF.

Seed Planting Depth: Sow ½-1” deep

Starting Indoors: Start indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75ºF soil temperature. Using peat, cow, or paper pots can help with the stress of transplanting, they grow delicate roots and successful transplanting may be challenging. Transplant after the last frost, 18-24" apart. Water seedlings regularly until established. 

Sowing Outdoors: After the last frost, when soil is over 70ºF. Sow a few seeds every- short and single stem varieties 6-12" apart, branching varieties 18-24" apart. Thin to the most robust seedling. Sow a few weeks later for continuous blooms

Growth Habit: Upright, Branching

Height and Width: 60" x 36-48"

Spacing: 18-24" apart

Light Needs:  Full sun

Soil Needs:  Loose, rich, well-drained

Approximate days to flower from seed: 65-75 days

Uses: Cut flowers and flower beds, short varieties-containers and planters, Attracts pollinators

Care:  Mix compost into the soil before sowing or transplanting. Adding too much nitrogen can cause plants to produce more foliage than flowers.