Species

Helianthus annuusCommon Sunflower

15 other cultivars

annualN. America Native

White Lite Sunflower

Helianthus annuus 'White Lite'

The Story

Plant Bio

A tall, sun-loving annual with large daisy-like flowers.

Unique for its white flowers, differing from the typical yellow sunflowers.

Uses & Benefits:

Helianthus annuus 'White Lite' adds a striking white contrast to sunny borders and cut flower arrangements.

Provides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting ecological health.

Supports local wildlife and enhances biodiversity in garden spaces.

SpeciesHelianthus annuusCommon Sunflower

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

66 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Americas

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location and prepare well-draining soil with compost.
Tuck seeds into the soil 1 inch deep, spaced 6 inches apart.
Water thoroughly after planting, keep soil moist during germination.
Mist seedlings regularly to maintain humidity and promote healthy growth.
Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once established, around 3 weeks.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
Remove dead or damaged leaves regularly
Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don't plant in shaded areas, they need full sun
Refrain from overcrowding to ensure good air circulation

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Harvest
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Sunny flower border with a vanilla-scented aromaWildflower meadow for ecological benefitsVivid cut flower for bouquets

Companion Plants

Zinnia CosmosMarigold Lavender Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Lite Sunflower questions

What zones can White Lite Sunflower grow in?

White Lite Sunflower is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is White Lite Sunflower deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse White Lite Sunflower, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does White Lite Sunflower bloom?

White Lite Sunflower typically blooms in summer to fall through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does White Lite Sunflower need full sun?

White Lite Sunflower does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is White Lite Sunflower drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), White Lite Sunflower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.