Helianthus 'Monarch'

Thin-leaved Sunflower Asteraceae

A sunflower with rather more elegance than its common name might suggest. ‘Monarch’ forms a handsome, branching plant carrying masses of brilliant golden-yellow, semi-double flowers, each with a prominent golden-brown central disc. The slightly overlapping rays give the flowers an almost spidery character, while the airy branching habit prevents such a generous flowerer from becoming a solid wall of yellow. It was submitted to the RHS trials by Great Dixter Nurseries and received an Award of Garden Merit in 1993, with the trial recording flowering from mid-June to late September. (RHS) An excellent late-season plant for the back of a border, it provides nectar and pollen for pollinating insects and makes a fine cut flower. Give it full sun and a moderately fertile, moisture-retentive soil; like many perennial sunflowers, it is tough and adaptable, though its height may warrant some support.

Cultivar origin: Original breeder/raiser unknown; submitted to RHS trials by Great Dixter Nurseries, receiving an AGM in 1993.
Flowering: June–September
Hardiness: H5, approximately −15 to −10°C
Height: 140–250 cm
Spread: 50–100 cm

Please note: depending on the time of year, some plants may be cut back before dispatch. This is normal horticultural practice and helps ensure plants arrive in good condition and establish strongly after planting.