A Florist’s Guide to Different Varieties of Sunflowers 🌻

Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are iconic blooms known for their bright yellow petals and cheerful appearance. However, beyond the classic variety, sunflowers come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. As a florist, understanding the different varieties can help you choose the perfect sunflower for bouquets, arrangements, or garden displays.

1. Common Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

Best For: Bouquets, floral arrangements, and garden planting

• The classic sunflower with bright yellow petals and a dark brown center.

• Grows tall, often reaching 5–12 feet in height.

• Large blooms (up to 12 inches in diameter).

• Ideal for statement floral arrangements or event décor.

2. Teddy Bear Sunflower 🧸

Best For: Bouquets, wedding arrangements, and container gardens

• A unique dwarf variety with fluffy, double-petaled blooms.

• Grows to about 2–3 feet tall, making it perfect for smaller spaces.

• Soft, pom-pom-like texture adds charm to floral arrangements.

3. Moulin Rouge Sunflower 🌹

Best For: Romantic bouquets, fall arrangements, and event décor

• Deep burgundy-red petals with a dark center.

• Grows to about 4–6 feet tall.

• Non-pollen variety, making it great for indoor use and allergy-friendly arrangements.

4. Autumn Beauty Sunflower 🍂

Best For: Rustic and autumn-themed floral designs

• Comes in warm shades of gold, bronze, orange, and burgundy.

• Medium-sized flowers, growing up to 6 inches in diameter.

• Stems reach 5–7 feet tall, great for mixed flower beds and cut flowers.

5. Italian White Sunflower 🤍

Best For: Elegant and minimalist arrangements

• Pale creamy white petals with a dark brown center.

• Grows to about 5–7 feet tall.

• Adds a delicate and sophisticated touch to floral designs.

6. Sunrich Series Sunflowers ☀️

Best For: Professional floral arrangements and weddings

• A hybrid variety known for pollen-free blooms (perfect for bouquets).

• Available in multiple colors, including Sunrich Gold, Sunrich Orange, and Sunrich Lemon.

• Blooms last longer in vases compared to traditional sunflowers.

7. Velvet Queen Sunflower 👑

Best For: Bold and dramatic floral displays

• Dark mahogany-red petals with a golden center.

• Grows to 4–6 feet tall.

• Works beautifully in mixed bouquets with deep-toned flowers.

8. Strawberry Blonde Sunflower 🍓

Best For: Unique and eye-catching floral arrangements

• Features pinkish-mauve petals that fade to a golden yellow at the tips.

• Medium-sized flowers on 5–6 foot tall stems.

• Stunning in pastel and boho-style bouquets.

9. Lemon Queen Sunflower 🍋

Best For: Soft and bright floral combinations

• Pale lemon-yellow petals with a dark brown center.

• Grows 5–7 feet tall with multiple blooms per stem.

• Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a garden favorite.

10. Little Becka Sunflower 🌅

Best For: Compact floral arrangements and small bouquets

• A dwarf sunflower (grows only 1–2 feet tall).

• Features a fiery blend of red, orange, and yellow petals.

• Perfect for adding a pop of color to centerpieces.

Sunflower Care Tips for Florists

✔ Cut sunflowers in the morning when their stems are full of moisture.
✔ Use clean, sharp shears to cut stems at an angle for better water absorption.
✔ Remove lower leaves before placing them in a vase to prevent bacterial growth.
✔ Keep in fresh water and change the water every 2–3 days to extend bloom life.
✔ Store sunflowers in a cool area away from direct sunlight to prevent wilting.

Sunflowers come in an incredible variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them versatile for floristry. Whether you’re designing an elegant wedding bouquet or a vibrant summer arrangement, there’s a sunflower variety to suit every occasion. 🌻✨