I’ve had the pleasure of growing and admiring countless sunflower varieties over the years. However, there’s one particular type that never fails to bring a smile to my face: Teddy Bear Sunflowers. These charming dwarf sunflowers have stolen my heart with their compact size and cheerful blooms, and I’m excited to share some fun facts and growing tips with you.

First, let’s talk about what makes Teddy Bear Sunflowers so special. Unlike their towering counterparts that can reach heights of up to 10 feet or more, these petite beauties typically only grow to be 2-3 feet tall. This makes them perfect for containers, borders, or small garden spaces where their larger cousins might not fit. Despite their smaller stature, Teddy Bear Sunflowers still pack a punch with their vibrant, golden-yellow petals that form a shaggy, fluffy head reminiscent of a teddy bear’s fur.

Now, let’s dive into some fun facts about these adorable sunflowers:

1. Teddy Bear Sunflowers are a cultivar of the common sunflower, Helianthus annuus, and were developed through selective breeding for their compact size and unique petal shape.
2. These sunflowers are not only adorable but also still edible! The petals can be used to add a sunny touch to salads, while the seeds are better saved for planting.
3. They are incredibly fast-growing, often blooming within 65-75 days from seed, making them a great choice for impatient gardeners like myself.
4. Despite their small size, Teddy Bear Sunflowers are still attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a great addition to any eco-friendly garden.
5. In addition to their ornamental value, Teddy Bear Sunflowers can also be used for cut flowers, lasting up to a week in a vase with proper care.

Now that you’re convinced of their charm, let’s talk about how to grow Teddy Bear Sunflowers successfully. First and foremost, these sun-loving plants require full sun to thrive, so be sure to plant them in an area that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. They also prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 to 7.5.

When it comes to watering, these sunflowers are relatively drought-tolerant once established but still benefit from consistent moisture. Water deeply and evenly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. I’ve found that applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, which is especially helpful during hot summer months.

While Teddy Bear Sunflowers don’t require heavy fertilization, they can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied sparingly during the growing season. Be sure to deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prolong the flowering period. And if you live in a particularly windy area, consider providing support with small stakes or cages to prevent these top-heavy plants from toppling over.

In my experience, Teddy Bear Sunflowers are well-suited for growing in USDA hardiness zones 3-9, where they can thrive in the warm summer months. So whether you’re a seasoned sunflower enthusiast or just looking to try a new varietal, I highly recommend giving Teddy Bear Sunflowers a chance. Their compact size, vibrant blooms, and easy-going nature make them a delightful addition to any garden.

But before you grow them, check out our Sunflower Gardening in America GuideBook on how to care for sunflowers—it includes all the details you need to plant your own prolific sunflower garden, plus some pretty spectacular varietals, including Teddy Bear Sunflowers.

Now it’s your turn! Have you ever grown Teddy Bear Sunflowers? If so, what tips or tricks have you discovered for growing these charming little sunflowers? And if you haven’t grown them yet, what’s stopping you? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—I’d love to hear from fellow teddy bear sunflower enthusiasts!