An overhead view of Chocolate Cherry sunflowers in various shades arranged on a white background.
Bouquet of Chocolate Cherry Sunflowers in a brown glass vase on a white background.
Chocolate Cherry Sunflowers arranged in a vintage chocolate box.
Close-up detail of a single Chocolate Cherry Sunflower bloom.
Chocolate Cherry Sunflowers in a metal vase on a white background.
An overhead view of Chocolate Cherry sunflowers in various shades arranged on a white background.
Bouquet of Chocolate Cherry Sunflowers in a brown glass vase on a white background.
Chocolate Cherry Sunflowers arranged in a vintage chocolate box.
Close-up detail of a single Chocolate Cherry Sunflower bloom.
Chocolate Cherry Sunflowers in a metal vase on a white background.

Sunflower Seeds,
Chocolate Cherry

4.556 ReviewsSKU: #FL732Min. seed count: 35
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Description

(Helianthus annuus). The petals of Chocolate Cherry sunflower range from deep obsidian to rich chocolate and black cherry and burst forth from deep onyx centers like a supernova. Some blooms have a vibrant yellow ring, or corona, around the pollen disk. Please note that some plants may produce orange-yellow or lighter color blooms. This multi-branching variety stands 6 to 7 feet in height and the heads average 5 to 8 inches across. This is a top choice for garden design or cut flower sales, thanks to a long vase life and lower pollen count than other heirloom sunflowers. Please note, a small portion of the sunflower blooms will throw some off-type colors.

Growing Tips: Chocolate Cherry sunflowers grow best in full sun and prefer well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Regular but moderate watering is important, especially during dry spells, to support their growth.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Helianthus annuus
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
8–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
65–75
Planting Depth
½ in.
Plant Spacing
16 in.
Ideal Temperature
60–75°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Sow seeds in spring after the last frost, when the soil has warmed. You can also start seeds indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost and carefully transplant them once the seedlings are hardened off. Ensure the soil temperature is around 70 F for best germination​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow the seeds about 1/2 inch deep and space them 16 inches apart in rich soil. Water the seeds thoroughly after planting, and keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs, usually within 7-14 days. Thin the seedlings to the correct spacing if necessary to help prevent overcrowding.

How to Grow

Chocolate Cherry sunflowers bloom within 65-75 days. These sunflowers benefit from regular feeding every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer, and they may require staking due to their tall, branching habit. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage continued blooming.

How to Save Seeds

  • When petals die back and heads begin to dry and turn brown, place a paper bag over the heads to protect seeds from birds.
  • After a few days, the heads will dry to a dark brown. Bring the heads indoors and hang them upside down in a dry area in direct sunlight for up to a week, shaking seeds free each day.
  • Store seeds in a cool, dark, dry place.

FAQ

How tall do Chocolate Cherry sunflowers grow?

These sunflowers can reach heights of 6-7 feet, sometimes even up to 8 feet in ideal conditions.

How long do Chocolate Cherry sunflowers take to mature?

They typically take 65-75 days to bloom depending on growing conditions.

How long do Chocolate Cherry blooms last in a vase?

The lower pollen count and sturdy stems give these blooms a long vase life. Cut when the ray petals have just lifted away from the pollen disk.

Browse our full range of sunflower seeds.

Customer reviews

4.5 / 5 56 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Deep burgundy blooms: Dark, velvety petals, nearly black on some blooms.

  • Towering plants: Often 7 to 8 feet tall with many blooms per stalk.

  • Bee and bird magnet: Bees cover the flowers; finches work the seed heads.

  • Easy to grow: Direct sows well and germinates reliably for most.

  • Heads up: Tall and top heavy; stake early where it is windy.

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