How to Grow Burgundy Sun
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Burgundy Sun
Helianthus annuus 'Burgundy Sun'
flowerBurgundy Sun is a stunning ornamental sunflower variety featuring deep burgundy-red petals with golden yellow centers, typically reaching 4-5 feet tall. This cultivar combines the classic sunflower structure with dramatic dark coloring, making it an eye-catching addition to gardens and cut flower arrangements. It's an annual that blooms prolifically throughout summer and fall.
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Example Burgundy Sun timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Burgundy Sun
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Burgundy Sun blooms
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Burgundy Sun dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-11; best results in zones 5-9
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Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksSeeds sprout within 7-10 days, developing two cotyledons followed by true leaves. Seedlings are tender and grow quickly.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light to prevent leggy growth. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once they have true leaves.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops sturdy stems and large leaves. Height increases rapidly as plant establishes deep root system. Leaves are large and coarse with slight serrations.
Support tall varieties with stakes or cages if needed. Water deeply and regularly. Pinch central stem when 12 inches tall to encourage branching (optional, for more flower production).
Bud Formation
2-3 weeksLarge terminal and lateral buds form at stem tips. Buds are initially green and tightly closed, gradually enlarging over 1-2 weeks.
Continue consistent watering and support. Apply balanced fertilizer if soil is poor. Monitor for pests and diseases.
Flowering
4-6 weeks per flushBuds open to reveal the characteristic burgundy-red petals surrounding golden yellow disc florets. Each bloom can reach 4-6 inches in diameter.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Stake plants firmly to prevent wind damage. Keep soil evenly moist.
Seed Development & Maturation
3-4 weeksFlorets fade and fall; disc swells as seeds develop. Seeds mature from the outer edge inward, developing characteristic striping and hardening.
Stop deadheading if you want seeds to mature. Reduce watering slightly. Seeds are ready to harvest when the back of the flower head turns brown.
Common Pests
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Remove infected seed heads; spray with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or neem oil
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Hand-pick in early morning; use Japanese beetle traps away from garden; apply neem oil
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs
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Increase humidity; spray with neem oil; maintain proper watering
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; remove infected stems promptly
Uses
Edible Seeds
CulinarySunflower seeds are nutritious snack foods and can be roasted and eaten whole or processed into sunflower butter. They're rich in vitamin E, selenium, and linoleic acid. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
HouseholdThe dramatic burgundy and gold coloring makes Burgundy Sun an exceptional choice for cut flower bouquets, floral arrangements, and vase displays. Flowers typically last 7-14 days in water. [source]
Drying & Decoration
CraftDried seed heads can be used in dried flower arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. The rich coloring is retained well when dried. [source]
Pollinator & Bird Support
WildlifeSunflowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with their abundant nectar and pollen. Mature seed heads feed goldfinches, cardinals, and other seed-eating birds. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalSunflower petals and seeds have been used in traditional herbal medicine to support immune function and inflammation management. Modern research supports antioxidant properties. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For cut flowers, harvest in early morning when blooms are fully open but petals still feel slightly crisp. Cut stems at 45-degree angles and immediately place in water. For seeds, wait until flower heads droop and the back turns brown (typically 40-50 days after bloom opening). Cut the entire head, hang upside down in a warm, dry location to fully dry, then extract seeds.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Burgundy Sun sunflowers exhibit heliotropism when young, tracking the sun's movement from east to west during the day, though mature plants typically face east.
- 🌱 Sunflowers are allelopathic, meaning they release chemicals that inhibit the growth of certain nearby plants—this is why companion planting considerations are important.
- 🌱 The genus name 'Helianthus' comes from the Greek words 'helios' (sun) and 'anthos' (flower), reflecting the flower's historical association with solar deities across cultures.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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