The meaning, history and symbolism of sunflowers

Where did sunflowers originate?

Sunflowers first originated around 1000 BC in the Americas, mainly in what is now known as Arizona and New Mexico, and had a huge variety of uses! They were first cultivated as a food source, with early Americans using the seeds to crush into flour for bread. The seeds were also eaten as a quick snack or mixed in with other oats and grains to make a type of granola. Yum!

But, sunflowers weren’t just used for food. When the American’s discovered how to extract the oil for cooking, they also started using it for their skin and hair too as it’s packed full of healthy vitamins. And the stalk would often be used as a building material. What an amazing flower right?!

Sunflowers grew super popular around Europe, Russia and Ukraine in the 1700s as the Russian Orthodox Church banned all foods that contained oil during Lent. Except sunflowers. As sunflower oil was permitted people became obsessed with the flower and by the early 19th century Russian farmers had grown over 2 million acres of sunflowers!

How did sunflowers get their name?

You can probably guess how sunflowers got their name. It’s simply because young sunflowers move to face the sun! They just love basking in the rays and can't get enough of that vitamin D. If you want to get technical though. Their scientific name is helianthus. This comes from the Greek word for ‘sun’ which is ‘helios’ and ‘flower’ which is 'anthus'.

In Greek mythology, the story goes that a nymph named Clytie was in love with Apollo, the God of Sun. In the beginning, he loved her too, but then his head was turned toward another nymph. In a fit of jealous rage, Clytie told the other nymphs' father, who then buried his daughter alive as punishment. Pretty brutal! Apollo was so angry that he then turned Clytie into a sunflower. But, as her love for him was so strong, she watched him move across the sky every day, just how sunflowers follow the sun.

What does a sunflower symbolise?

Sunflowers symbolise loyalty, adoration thanks to the myth of Clytie and Apollo. And, because of their association with the sun, sunflowers are well-known for being a happy flower and the perfect bloom for a summer flower delivery to brighten someone’s mood!

But, they actually have different meanings across cultures. In China, sunflowers symbolise long life, vitality and good luck. And to Native Americans sunflowers symbolised harvest and provision. Basically no matter where you are, sunflowers are a positive flower that brings joy to many!

The spiritual meaning of sunflowers

Many people see sunflowers as a spiritual flower. This is because of their similar appearance to the sun and the fact that they’re always trying to find the light. So sunflowers are very popular with various religions as they symbolise loyalty and following god or their spiritual guide.Having bright, sunny flowers around the house can also help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety as well as help with depression. Some people swear by including sunflowers in teas, bath bombs, bath oils, massage oil and cooking for the ultimate at home self-care!

Are there different colour sunflowers and what do they mean?

When you think of sunflowers you probably think of their big, distinct yellow petals and brown centre. So, it may surprise you to learn that there are actually other colours! While other colours are rare they are around and of course, each colour has its own meaning.

Yellow sunflowers

Yellow sunflowers are a classic flower. Super dazzling and unmistakable we love a bright yellow sunflower! And they have a meaning of goodness, truth and timelessness.

Red sunflowers

Red sunflowers usually have deep red petals that surround a black centre. These are pretty unusual but they look absolutely beautiful! And they have a meaning of strength and positivity.

Orange sunflowers

Orange sunflowers are ultra-vibrant flowers that really attract bees and hummingbirds. They have a meaning of energy, happiness and good fortune.

White sunflowers

White sunflowersare probably the rarest of them all. They're not a true white, more of a very pale yellow with a black centre. White sunflowers mean purity, re-birth and peace so they're perfect to give to someone who's starting a new chapter in their life.

Pink sunflowers

Pink sunflowers are an unusual but pretty sight with the petals and stems a dark pink with lighter pink tips. And they have a meaning of innocence and good health.

Purple sunflowers

Purple sunflowers really are lovely and are perfect to add something unique to your gardens. They have a meaning of wealth, glory and royalty too so they’re definitely an impressive bloom!

The different types of sunflowers

In addition to the different beautiful colour variations, there are different varieties of sunflowers. Follow us to discover the most popular ones:

• Giant Sunflowers:

   

  These are super tall, reaching heights of 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 metres). They have massive flower heads that can measure over 1 foot (30 centimetres) in diameter. Talk about giant sunflower power!

• Dwarf Sunflowers:

   

  These cuties are the shorter versions of sunflowers, standing at around 1 to 3 feet (30 to 90 centimetres) in height. They often produce multiple flower heads, perfect to satisfy your sunflower cravings.

• Teddy Bear Sunflowers:

   

  Now, these sunflowers are adorable! They have fluffy, double flowers that look like pom-poms or cute teddy bear faces. They're on the compact side, growing to about 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 centimetres) in height.

• Multi-Branched Sunflowers:

   

  These sunflowers are overachievers in the best way. They produce multiple flower heads on each stem, giving you a fuller and more abundant display of blooms. Get ready for a sunflower party! "Sunrich" and "Soraya" are some popular multi-branched varieties.

• Pollen-Free Sunflowers:

   

  If you have pollen allergies, these sunflowers are your heroes. They've been specially bred to produce little to no pollen, so you can enjoy their beauty without the sneezes. They're often called "pollenless" or "allergy-friendly" sunflowers. Thank you, science!

Flowers that look like sunflowers

You can’t find sunflowers anywhere? Don’t despair, there are lovely flowers out there that look like sunflowers and will fulfil your sunflower cravings. We’re thinking about some varieties of zinnias and marigolds.

You can’t find these either? Then pick a bright yellow flower bouquet that will bring sunshine to your home. Problem solved.

When do sunflowers bloom?

In the UK, people usually plant sunflowers from around mid-April to the end of May, hoping to see them in full bloom by August.

Do sunflowers come back every year?

They do, and they don’t. The same sunflower will flower again the following year if it is “perennial”. If sunflowers don’t come back, chances are they are “annual” sunflowers. But you’re in luck as they do come back at Bloom & Wild every year!

How long do sunflowers last when cut?

Your sunflower bouquet can last up to 2 weeks if you give it some love. Follow our tips to keep your sunflowers happy:

• Make sure no leaves are under water

• Place your blooms in fresh water and keep them in the shade

• Change your bouquet water every second day, especially if the water starts to get a little cloudy

• If you're looking to prolong your flower bouquet here are 7 creative dried flowers decor ideas!

• Fun facts about sunflowers!

• Can't get enough of sunflowers? Here are some fun facts!

• The tallest recorded sunflower was a ginormous 9.17m (30 ft 1 inch) The sunflower is now the national flower for both Russia and Ukraine. Sunflower seeds are packed full of calcium so they're perfect for a little mid-afternoon healthy snack. Sunflowers are usually given on a third wedding anniversary. Each sunflower can produce between 1000-2000 seeds!

• We hope you’ve come across some interesting facts about the lovely sunflowers. You might also enjoy our guides on the meaning of tulips and the carnations and peonies. Flowers are fascinating, aren’t they?