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Helianthus are best known as annual sunflowers but there are tuberous or rhizomatous perennials. Their large seeds, quick growing nature and large flower heads make them an excellent basic plant for children to grow.

The Jerusalem Artichoke is a member of the Helianthus family (Helianthus tuberosus).

In the UK perennial Helianthus should be cut back after flowering. For annuals it really depends on whether you'd like to to collect seed or not. If you're not collecting seed pull it up and chuck it on the compost heap.

Helianthus Species

• Helianthus annuus: - The Common Annual Sunflower
• Helianthus laetiflorus: - A spreading, rhizomatous perennial growing to 6ft
• Helianthus tuberosus: - Jerusalem Artichoke, grown as a vegetable.

Collecting Sunflower Seeds

1. Grow a sunflower
2. Harvest the seeds when the flower wilts, the back of the flower head turns brown and the seeds have a black stripe.
3. Rub the flower head and catch the seeds in suitable container.

or

1. When ripe put a bag over the seed head.
2. Cut off the seed head and hang upside down in a a garage or frost free place.
3. stick some holes in the bag to stop the seed getting all moldy and funky.

Collected seed can be used for...

• Feeding birds through the winter.
• Planting out for new plants in the spring.
• Eating them [Bake at 175C for ten to fifteen minutes ]

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