Tall Teddy Bear or Tall Sungold Sunflower, 1800's Heirloom Sunflower

While most sunflowers have a simple, wild appearance, the Tall Sungold is a refined heirloom that captured the imagination of the Victorian era. In the late 19th century, European and American gardeners became obsessed with "double" flowers—blossoms with extra layers of petals.

This variety was a horticultural sensation because it looked so "fluffy" and sophisticated compared to the farm-variety sunflowers of the time. It was frequently featured in high-end seed catalogs of the 1880s and 90s as the "Chrysanthemum-flowered Sunflower." Today, it remains a beloved "contemporary heirloom" for those who want to recreate the lush, textured look of a traditional English garden.

Don't let the "fancy" appearance fool you—the Tall Sungold is a hardworking member of the garden ecosystem:

• Pollen & Nectar: While the dense "double" petals make it slightly harder for some insects to reach the center, it is still a significant nectar source for honeybees and bumblebees who love to crawl through the shaggy petals.
• The Winter Banquet: Once the "shaggy" petals fade, the heads produce a high volume of oil-rich seeds. If you leave the spent stalks standing, you will have a front-row seat to an autumn feast for Goldfinches, Chickadees, and Cardinals.
• Beneficial Bug Shelter: The dense, multi-layered petals provide a unique hunting ground and shelter for ladybugs and other predatory insects.

• Spectacular "Double" Blooms: Features dense, shaggy pom-pon flowers that are a vibrant, glowing gold from edge to center.
• Majestic Height: Reaches a stately 5 to 6 feet, making it much taller than its dwarf "Teddy Bear" cousins and perfect for the back of the border.
• Exceptional Cut Flower: One of the best sunflowers for the vase! The double petals mean there is no messy pollen drop on your furniture, and the blooms have an incredible vase life.
• Sturdy & Reliable: Features thick, strong stems that support the heavy weight of the "puffy" flower heads.
• Instant Garden Drama: Its unique texture makes it a great conversation piece that stands out against standard sunflowers.

1. Sowing the Seeds:
Like all sunflowers, Tall Sungold is a fast grower and is best direct-sown into the garden once the soil is warm.

• When: Sow outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and the soil is at least 65°F.
• Depth: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep.
• Germination: Expect sprouts in 7–10 days.

2. The Perfect Location:
Choose a location along a fence, a wall, or the back of a flower bed. They must have Full Sun. Because they produce large, heavy flower heads, they appreciate rich soil amended with compost and consistent moisture.

3. Maintenance:

• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 18–24 inches apart. This provides enough airflow for the large, fuzzy heads and room for the plants to reach their full height.
• Staking: Because the double-blooms can be heavy (especially after a rain), providing a sturdy stake or planting them against a fence can help keep the stalks upright.
• Watering: Water regularly at the base of the plant. Avoid getting the "fuzzy" petals too wet, as they can hold moisture and become heavy.

Tall Sungold looks spectacular when paired with the deep, dark purples of Giant Purple Hyssop or Dark Blue Bachelor Buttons. The contrast between the shaggy gold "pom-pons" and the cool purple tones creates a professional, high-contrast look that is truly "Incredible."

Garden Tip: If you are cutting these for a bouquet, harvest them when the flower is about 2/3 open. The shaggy petals will continue to unfurl in the vase, and you'll get the longest possible display of golden "Teddy Bear" fluff! ✂️🌻