Close up of a single Arikara Sunflower on a white background.
Three giant Arikara Sunflower blooms at different growth stages against a brown background.
Two giant Arikara Sunflower blooms against a brown wooden background.
Closeup of a single giant Arikara Sunflower bloom against a brown background.
Three giant Arikara Sunflower blooms at different growth stages with a spoon full of sunflower seeds. against a brown background.
Close up of a single Arikara Sunflower on a white background.
Three giant Arikara Sunflower blooms at different growth stages against a brown background.
Two giant Arikara Sunflower blooms against a brown wooden background.
Closeup of a single giant Arikara Sunflower bloom against a brown background.
Three giant Arikara Sunflower blooms at different growth stages with a spoon full of sunflower seeds. against a brown background.

Sunflower Seeds,
Arikara

4.521 ReviewsSKU: #FL736Min. seed count: 35
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Description

(Helianthus annuus). This native variety produces 10-foot-tall plants with many beautiful large, bright yellow flowers with centers in varying shades of brown. The seeds are edible and were used by the Arikara nation in North Dakota. This heirloom produces flowers over a long period; it was a real winner in our garden!

Growing Tips: Arikara sunflowers require full sun exposure for at least 6-8 hours a day. They prefer rich soil and moderate soil moisture. Water the plants deeply but infrequently to promote strong root development, usually about once per week. Taller plants may need staking to protect against wind.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Helianthus annuus
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
8–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
70–85
Planting Depth
½ in.
Plant Spacing
18–24 in.
Ideal Temperature
65–75°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach at least 50 F, typically in late spring. If starting indoors, sow the seeds 2-3 weeks before the last frost and transplant once they are hardened off. 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

Plant Arikara sunflower seeds about 1/2 inch deep and 18-24 inches apart in the garden after frost danger has passed. Indoors, plant seeds 1/2 inch deep in pots, and thin seedlings to the strongest plant once a few sets of leaves form. Harden seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions​.

How to Grow

Water deeply but less frequently, aiming for once a week, to encourage deep rooting. Use a balanced fertilizer sparingly, as too much can weaken the plants' stems. Protect from common pests like birds and insects by using netting or deterrents, and provide support stakes for taller plants​.

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

Why are my Arikara sunflower plants drooping?

Drooping may be due to insufficient water or a lack of support. Deep watering and staking will help.

Can I plant Arikara sunflowers in pots?

Since these sunflowers can grow up to 10 feet tall, it's best to plant them outside; however, you can start them indoors in pots 2-3 weeks before the last frost for a head start.

How can I prevent birds from eating my Arikara sunflower seeds?

Use scare tactics like spinners or cover the seed heads with mesh or cheesecloth as they mature.

Browse our full range of sunflower seeds.

Customer reviews

4.5 / 5 21 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Towering stalks: Most reach 10 to 12 feet, with a main head up to 15 inches.

  • Many blooms per stalk: One big top head plus smaller side blooms over a long season.

  • Pollinator magnet: Bees swarm the pollen-heavy heads; birds come for the seed.

  • Reseeds itself: Volunteers pop up the next spring and saved seed grows well.

  • Heads up: Stake against wind; direct-sown seed can be spotty, so sow early.

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