Types of Sunflowers That Grows Seeds

Oilseed vs. Confectionery Seeds

• According to the Thomas Jefferson Agricultural Institute, up to 90 percent of the 3 million acres of sunflowers grown annually in the U.S. are oilseed. The majority of this seed is processed into vegetable oil. The remaining 10 to 20 percent of U.S. sunflower-seed crops are confectionery seeds. These familiar black-and-white striped seeds make for a healthy snack.

Mammoth Russian

• Your best bet for sunflowers that produce large, confectionery seeds are the taller varieties, also called mammoth or giant. The Washington State University Clark County Extension recommends the Mammoth Russian, which grows up to 12 feet tall and features huge flower heads (up to 2 feet across) filled with large, thin-shelled, striped seeds. The enormous flowers make an impressive statement planted singly, in borders and even as the "walls" of a "sunflower fort" for children. The big yellow seed heads attract butterflies and birds.

Kong

• The Kong sunflower is an annual that reaches 12 feet tall. This monster flower is a multi-branched plant that boasts 4- to 6-inch, yellow flower heads with dark centers on large, deep-green leaves. Its heavy stalks are sturdy enough to support the multiple flower heads that bloom throughout the summer.

Giganteus

• The Giganteus sunflower is a giant in every sense of the word. It grows up to 12 feet tall, producing single flower heads that span 8 to 10 inches in diameter. Its strong stalks can handle high winds and inclement weather. If you're not interested in harvesting its seeds for your own consumption, the dried heads make excellent natural bird feeders.

Paul Bunyan

• With a name like Paul Bunyan, it's no surprise that this sunflower is one of the tallest of the giant cultivars. Its golden yellow flowers soar 13 to 15 feet high on strong stalks that may require staking, and are best planted in areas sheltered from wind. This easy-to-grow annual attracts butterflies and birds, performs best in full sun and blooms all summer long. Paul Bunyan sunflowers thrive with regular watering, but are drought tolerant.