Hopi Black Dye Sunflowers on a purple scarf with a white background.
Hopi Black Dye Sunflower held with two hands with a purple shirt background.
Three Hopi Black Dye Sunflower blooms on a wooden table looking from above.
Two Hopi Black Dye Sunflowers on a wooden table with a handful of sunflower seeds above.
Closeup of a Hopi Black Dye Sunflower bloom in the field.
Hopi Black Dye Sunflowers on a purple scarf with a white background.
Hopi Black Dye Sunflower held with two hands with a purple shirt background.
Three Hopi Black Dye Sunflower blooms on a wooden table looking from above.
Two Hopi Black Dye Sunflowers on a wooden table with a handful of sunflower seeds above.
Closeup of a Hopi Black Dye Sunflower bloom in the field.

Sunflower Seeds,
Hopi Black Dye

4.524 ReviewsSKU: #FL740Min. seed count: 35
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Description

(Helianthus annuus). A brilliant obsidian black-seeded sunflower used for making natural dye, perfect for coloring food and clothing. This traditional variety has been saved and used by the Hopi Native American people for dying cotton, wool, and other fibers in making iconic Hopi basketry. These medium-to-large sunflower heads are striking in the garden, and the simple dye making process yields stellar shades from dove gray to deep purple, depending on the technique and materials used. A multipurpose variety, the food and fodder merits of this beautiful variety should not be overlooked. Reaches about 8 feet tall.

Growing Tips: The Hopi Black Dye sunflower grows best in full sun and prefers well-draining, rich soil, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (4.5-8.7). These tall plants benefit from regular watering, especially during dry spells.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Helianthus annuus
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
8–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
90–100
Planting Depth
½ in.
Plant Spacing
18–24 in.
Ideal Temperature
65–75°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Sow seeds directly outdoors 1-2 weeks after the last frost, once the soil has warmed to at least 60 F. In cooler climates, you can start them indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost. Check your local frost dates to determine an exact time for planting. This sunflower takes about 90-100 days to mature​. 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 seeds 1/2 inch deep, spacing them 18-24 inches apart for good airflow. Space rows about 24-36 inches apart. Thin seedlings to allow for optimal growth. Since Hopi Black Dye can grow tall, staking might be necessary to prevent them from toppling​.

How to Grow

Sunflowers are heavy feeders, so mix in compost or a balanced fertilizer before planting. Water deeply and consistently to promote strong root growth. While sunflowers are somewhat drought-tolerant, providing moderate water will ensure better flower and seed production. Be mindful of wind exposure, as taller plants might need additional support.

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

Can Hopi Black Dye sunflowers grow in containers?

Due to their height (about 8 feet), these sunflowers are not well-suited for containers. They require ample space for their deep roots and support for their tall stems.

What kind of fertilizer should I use for Hopi Black Dye sunflowers?

Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer (high in phosphorus and potassium). Too much nitrogen can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

Are Hopi Black Dye sunflowers prone to pests?

These sunflowers are relatively pest-resistant but may attract aphids and caterpillars. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs can help control aphid populations.

Browse our full range of sunflower seeds.

Customer reviews

4.5 / 5 24 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Blooms at every node: Early to flower, then side blooms all the way down the stalk.

  • Thick, sturdy stalks: Wrist-thick stems to 8 feet and more, often with no staking.

  • Seeds for dye: Dark seeds stain fingers purple and dye yarn gray to purple.

  • Bees roll in it: Bees come away coated in pollen; birds follow for the seed.

  • Heads up: Squirrels snap off ripe heads; cover or cut them early.

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