A comprehensive mixture of sunflower colours in a host of evening sun shades - yellows, reds and buff, some with a bright yellow or a deep red disc. These medium sized flower heads (approx. 10-13cm (4-5in) in diameter), make fantastic cut flowers, lasting for a long time in water and help to give height and stature in the border. Flowers summer. Height 122-150cm (48-60in).

Sow early spring to early summer outdoors where they are to flower. Sow 12mm (½in) deep in rows 30cm (12in) apart. Germination usually takes around 21 days.

Sowing can also be done indoors in early spring, sow the seed individually in 7.5cm (3in) pots. Germination takes 1-2 weeks at 20C (70F). Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out after all risk of frost has gone.

When large enough to handle, thin out the seedlings to 30cm (12in) apart. They prefer a sunny open site but will grow in most soils.

The green buds before the flower opens are delicious cooked in butter sauce and the seeds make a tasty snack.