How could I forget the Japanese silverleaf sunflowers?
An international effort. Native to coastal southern Texas, it is known as the Japanese Silverleaf due to that country’s renowned work in breeding sunflower varieties. I’m not sure whether this is the straight species or an improved-upon seed strain via Japanese growers. My source was Annie’s Annuals.
They do attract attention. (Marty this morning: How many sunflowers are open today?) You know how the annual sunflowers always have that descriptor “coarse” used when describing the leaves? Not with these leaves. Silvery-green, slightly furry, tidy, neat. Never coarse.
Now residing in my humble stock tank, which barely has the depth to support its exuberant growth. If you grow it close to a table, no vase will be required to enjoy the flowers. I added a length of rebar for insurance, and to keep the table clear for morning coffee. Have a great weekend.
You can’t beat sunflowers for cheer! I was disappointed by the ‘Lemon Queen’ sunflowers I grew from seed this year but if these are as floriferous as Annie’s attests, I’ll definitely try them out next year. The foliage is a major bonus.
Another item added to my Annie’s wish list. I hope they’ll have a Labor Day sale this year!!
Gerhard
Another item added to my Annie’s wish list. I hope they’ll have a Labor Day sale this year!!
P.S. Spring might be a better time to buy this 🙂
Thanks for the education. I’ve never heard of silverleaf sunflowers. Those leaves are very cool. And the Japanese are renown for breeding sunflowers? I had no idea. I guess that’s not surprising. The Japanese seem to be able to take just about anything from any culture or country and raise it up from mundane to sublime….