in bloom
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Velvet Queen
Annual sunflower cultivar
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Annual sunflower cultivar
- Height × spread: 5-7 ft × 2-3 ft (1.5-2.1 m × 0.6-0.9 m)
- Bloom window: mid summer to fall
- Color & flower form: single dark red to copper petals with dark center; 5-8 in (12-20 cm)
- Fragrance: 1 trace
- USDA hardiness: grown as annual in all USDA zones
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Cut‑flower notes: good stem strength for arrangements; typical vase life 6-12 days in clean water depending on cultivar and care
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Deep red petals rather than yellow
- Branching habit extends the cutting window
- Medium head size fits vases better than giant forms
Strengths
- Distinctive color in borders and bouquets
- Attracts pollinators
- Performs reliably in summer heat with moisture
Care in one minute
Site: full sun
Soil: well‑drained soil with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 6.8
Water: deep, regular watering during dry spells
Feeding: avoid high nitrogen to limit floppy growth
Pinch: pinch once at 8-12 in tall to encourage branching
Overwintering: not applicable; warm‑season annual in North America
Watch‑outs
- Dark red petals may bronze or fade in extreme heat
- Color variation occurs from seed lines
- Birds may feed on ripening seed
Best uses (tags)
Provenance note
A long‑sold dark red seed strain listed by the Royal Horticultural Society; detailed breeding origin not verified.
References
- RHS Plant Finder: Helianthus annuus ‘Velvet Queen’
- UMN Extension: Sunflowers
- ASPCA: Sunflower non‑toxic to pets
