Sunflower Helianthus 'Capenoch Star'
ABOUT
The Helianthus 'Capenoch Star', commonly known as the Sunflower 'Capenoch Star', typically has a striking and vivid appearance. This variety of sunflower is characterized by its large, showy flowers with bright yellow petals radiating around a dark brown to black central disc. The petals are usually broad and slightly overlapping, resembling rays of sunshine which give the sunflower its name. The central disc that houses the real flowers is often prominent, with its rough texture contrasting with the smoothness of the petals. The leaves of the Sunflower 'Capenoch Star' are typically heart-shaped or lanceolate with a coarse, hairy texture. They are a rich green color, providing a lush backdrop for the brilliant blooms. The leaves appear along the stem, which is sturdy and rough to the touch, being able to support the weight of the large flower heads. As a sunflower, this plant is known for following the sun throughout the day, an action referred to as heliotropism, which adds a dynamic quality to its presence in the garden. The overall impression it makes is one of brightness and cheer, with the golden blooms creating a focal point wherever they are planted. The Sunflower 'Capenoch Star' brings with it a rustic charm and a touch of the countryside, and its flowers are often sought after for cut flower arrangements due to their large size and vibrant color.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Capenoch Star Sunflower
Common names
Helianthus 'Capenoch Star'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as the sunflower generally is not considered toxic to humans. Typically, its parts, including seeds, are consumed safely in various forms. However, like with any plant, individuals might experience allergic reactions or sensitivity. Nonetheless, extensive consumption of any plant material may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or other issues due to the physical properties of the plant material rather than chemical toxicity.
To pets
Sunflowers are not toxic to most pets, including dogs and cats. They are often considered safe and pose minimal risk if pets consume parts of the plant. However, it is always prudent to monitor pets for any unusual behavior or signs of gastrointestinal upset when they ingest plant material they are not accustomed to.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: The Sunflower 'Capenoch Star' is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which helps pollinate other plants in the garden.
- Provides food for wildlife: The seeds produced by sunflowers serve as a food source for birds and other wildlife during the fall and winter months.
- Decorative uses: Sunflowers are popular in floral arrangements and as garden ornamentals for their large, showy flower heads and bright yellow petals.
- Low maintenance: Sunflowers are relatively easy to grow and don't require much care once established, making them suitable for novice gardeners.
- Soil improvement: Sunflowers have deep roots that can help break up compacted soil and improve its structure for other plants.
- Drought resistance: Once established, sunflowers are quite tolerant of drought, making them suitable for dry or arid climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic inspiration: Photographers and painters often use the Sunflower 'Capenoch Star' as a subject due to its vibrant and striking appearance.
- Biodegradable planting pots: The stalks of the Sunflower can be processed and molded into biodegradable pots for starting other plants.
- Natural dye: The petals of the Sunflower can be used in creating natural dyes for fabrics and art projects.
- Crafts material: Dried Sunflower heads and seeds can be used in crafting, such as making bird feeders or decorative items.
- Soil remediation: Sunflowers, including the 'Capenoch Star', can absorb toxins and heavy metals from the soil, making it cleaner for other plants.
- Education and research: This Sunflower variety can be used in academic settings to study plant biology, genetics, and hybridization techniques.
- Cooking oil: Sunflower seeds can be pressed to extract oil that is used for cooking and in food products.
- Alternative energy source: Biofuel can be produced from Sunflower oil, providing a renewable energy source.
- Animal feed: Sunflower meal, a byproduct of oil extraction, can be used as a nutritional feed for livestock.
- Floral arrangements: Fresh or dried Sunflowers can add a rustic appeal to bouquets and floral decor.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Sunflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Sunflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adoration: The Helianthus, commonly known as the Sunflower, often symbolizes adoration due to its nature of turning to face the sun, suggesting a sense of loyalty and unwavering affection.
- Longevity: Sunflowers are known for their vitality and ability to thrive in difficult conditions, representing a life that is long-lived and resilient.
- Positivity: With their bright and sunny appearance, sunflowers are associated with happiness, positivity, and a cheerful disposition.
- Strength: They symbolize strength not only because they can grow in harsh environments but also their stems are sturdy and strong, supporting their large flower heads.
- Loyalty: Just as the sunflower turns towards the sun throughout the day, it represents loyalty and faithfulness in personal relationships.
- Seeking truth: The sunflower's characteristic of following the light is often equated to seeking truth or an enlightenment.
WaterSunflowers, such as the Capenoch Star, prefer consistent moisture but do not do well in oversaturated soil. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water for each plant to encourage deep root growth. During particularly hot or dry periods, you may need to water sunflowers more frequently, possibly every 2-3 days, to maintain moist soil. Avoid watering overhead to minimize leaf wetness and reduce the risk of disease. Always check the soil before watering; it should be dry to about an inch below the surface before adding more water.
LightSunflowers, including the Capenoch Star variety, thrive in full sun. They need a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, though they prefer 8 or more hours for optimal growth and flower production. The best spot for these plants would be an open area away from the shade of trees or buildings, where they will receive unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day.
TemperatureSunflowers like the Capenoch Star do well in a range of temperatures but grow best when the daytime temperature is between 70°F and 78°F. They can survive minimum temperatures down to around 50°F, but growth will be slower. Maximum temperatures can go up to 90°F before the plants may start to show signs of heat stress. Providing adequate water during high temperatures helps sunflowers maintain their health.
PruningPruning sunflowers like the Capenoch Star isn’t typically necessary for plant health, but it may be done to shape the plant or remove damaged or diseased leaves and stems. Deadheading, or removing spent flower heads, can encourage more blooms on certain varieties. The best time for pruning is late summer after the plants have flowered. Pruning should be conservative, removing only the necessary parts of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Capenoch Star sunflower thrives best in well-drained, nutrient-rich loam with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. For optimal growth, a soil mix composed of equal parts garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand is ideal to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingCapenoch Star sunflowers, being generally grown as annuals, do not typically require repotting. If started in containers, they may be transplanted once to accommodate growth. Ensure stable support as they can grow tall.
Humidity & MistingSunflowers, including the Capenoch Star variety, prefer moderate humidity levels and are quite adaptable to the ambient outdoor humidity in most growing regions. They do not have specific humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, ample space, and sturdy support for growth.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, with well-draining soil and space for growth.
Hardiness zone
2-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the 'Capenoch Star' sunflower begins with seed germination, which occurs in the spring when soil temperatures reach around 70-85°F (21-30°C). After germination, the seedling emerges and develops its first true leaves, entering the vegetative stage where it focuses on growth of leaves and stem. This is followed by the flowering stage, where the 'Capenoch Star' produces its characteristic large, yellow flowers usually in the mid to late summer. Once the flowers are pollinated, the plant enters the reproductive stage, developing seeds within the flower heads. As summer ends and autumn approaches, the plant matures and the seeds ripen, at which point they can be harvested. Lastly, the plant's life cycle ends as it completes its annual growth cycle and dies with the first heavy frost, although seeds may survive to grow new plants the following season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Helianthus 'Capenoch Star', commonly known as a perennial sunflower, is typically propagated through division, which is best done in the spring. To propagate by division, first carefully dig up the clump of sunflower tubers after the danger of frost has passed, ensuring you have a substantial root segment with each division. Gently tease apart the clump into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. Replant these divisions immediately at the same depth they were growing before, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growing space. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish them. This method helps to maintain the vigor of the plant and also controls their spread, as some perennial sunflowers can be quite robust growers.
