Annual flowers for full sun

Annual flowers in our records that need full sun. Virginia Cooperative Extension counts six or more hours of direct sunlight a day as full sun. The table below compares every plant we list side by side.

Varieties
129
Height
0½–16 ft (15–488 cm)
Hardiness
Grown as an annual in every zone
Flowers

40 Sunflowers

40 Zinnias

39 Marigolds

10 Black-eyed Susans

All 129 annual flowers for full sun

A American Giant sunflower flower up close on the plant American Giant F1 hybrid giant sunflower, 8 to 16 feet tall with 10-inch yellow flower heads. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer8–16 ft (244–488 cm) Single stem (estimated)
A Antigua marigold flower up close on the plant Antigua Compact F1 African marigold with 3-inch double blooms in yellow, gold and orange. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall10–16 in (25–41 cm)African
A Autumn Beauty sunflower flower up close on the plant Autumn Beauty Branching sunflower mix, up to 8 inch blooms in yellow, bronze and purple shades. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall8–10 ft (244–305 cm)Branching
A Autumn Colors black-eyed Susan flower up close on the plant Autumn Colors Black-eyed Susan with 5 inch bronze flowers ringed in red around rusty red centers. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) 2 ft (55–61 cm)Rudbeckia hirta
A Autumn Forest black-eyed Susan flower up close on the plant Autumn Forest Annual black-eyed Susan with 5 inch blooms in red, yellow and mahogany shades. Late spring, Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall18–22 in (46–56 cm)Rudbeckia hirta
A Aztec Sunset zinnia flower up close on the plant Aztec Sunset Compact Mexican zinnia, 2 inch double bicolor blooms on 6-10 inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall6–10 in (15–25 cm) Dahlia-flowered (estimated)
A Benary's Giant zinnia flower up close on the plant Benary's Giant Cut-flower zinnia series with fully double 4–6 inch blooms on 40–50 inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall3½–4 ft (102–127 cm)Dahlia-flowered
A Big Smile sunflower flower up close on the plant Big Smile Open-pollinated dwarf sunflower, 12–24 in. tall, with golden-yellow flowers. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall1–2 ft (30–61 cm)Branching
A Bonanza marigold flower up close on the plant Bonanza Compact French marigold series with double crested blooms on 6 to 10-inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall6–10 in (15–25 cm)French
A Boy O Boy marigold flower up close on the plant Boy O Boy Dwarf crested French marigold mix on 8-inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall8 in (20 cm)French
A Bright Jewels zinnia flower up close on the plant Bright Jewels Cactus-flowered zinnia mixture, 4 to 5 inch semi-double blooms with needle-like petals, 3 ft tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall3 ft (91 cm)Cactus-flowered
A Buttercream sunflower flower up close on the plant Buttercream Pollenless cut sunflower with pale butter-yellow flowers and brown centers. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer4–5 ft (122–147 cm) Branching (estimated)
A California Giant zinnia flower up close on the plant California Giant Heirloom zinnia mix with 4-6 inch double flowers on plants 2 to 4 feet tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall 2–4 ft (61–122 cm) (estimated) Dahlia-flowered (estimated)
A Candy Cane zinnia flower up close on the plant Candy Cane Striped double zinnia, 4-inch blooms in pink and cherry on white or gold, 17 to 24 inches. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall1½–2 ft (43–61 cm)Dahlia-flowered
A Cappuccino black-eyed Susan flower up close on the plant Cappuccino Black-eyed Susan with red-orange rays tipped yellow, 18 to 20 inches, June to frost. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall18–20 in (46–51 cm)Rudbeckia hirta
A Cempasúchil marigold flower up close on the plant Cempasúchil Tall Mexican marigold with large deep orange to yellow blooms. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall 3–4 ft (91–122 cm) (estimated) African
A Cherry Brandy black-eyed Susan flower up close on the plant Cherry Brandy Compact black-eyed Susan with single wine-red flowers 3 to 4 inches across. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall1½–2 ft (51–61 cm)Rudbeckia hirta
A Chim Chiminee black-eyed Susan flower up close on the plant Chim Chiminee Black-eyed Susan mix with quilled petals in gold, russet, dusty red and chocolate. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) 2–2½ ft (61–76 cm)Rudbeckia hirta
A Chocolate Cherry sunflower flower up close on the plant Chocolate Cherry Branching sunflower with chocolate-burgundy 5–8 inch blooms on 6–7 ft plants. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall6–7 ft (183–213 cm)Branching
A Cinnamon Sun sunflower flower up close on the plant Cinnamon Sun F1 ornamental sunflower with 5–6 inch cinnamon-bronze blooms on 5–7 ft plants. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall5–7 ft (152–213 cm) Branching (estimated)
A Claret sunflower flower up close on the plant Claret Pollen-free F1 sunflower with dark reddish-brown blooms on bushy plants. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall6–6½ ft (180–200 cm)Branching
A Climax marigold flower up close on the plant Climax Tall Burpee African marigold with 4 to 5 inch double blooms in yellow and orange. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall3 ft (91 cm)African
A Crackerjack marigold flower up close on the plant Crackerjack Tall African marigold mix with 4-inch double blooms in orange, gold and yellow. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2–3 ft (61–91 cm)African
A Crystal zinnia flower up close on the plant Crystal Narrowleaf zinnia series with small single blooms in white, orange and yellow, 8 to 10 in tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall8–10 in (20–25 cm)Single
A Cut and Come Again zinnia flower up close on the plant Cut and Come Again Heirloom zinnia mix with 2 to 3 inch flowers in bright mixed colors on tall plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2–3½ ft (61–107 cm)Semi-double
A Disco marigold flower up close on the plant Disco Dwarf French marigold mix with single 2-inch blooms in warm colors. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall8–10 in (20–25 cm)French
A Discovery marigold flower up close on the plant Discovery Dwarf African marigold with 2 to 3 inch double orange and yellow blooms. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall8–10 in (20–25 cm)African
A Dreamland zinnia flower up close on the plant Dreamland Dwarf F1 zinnia series, 3-4 inch blooms on 8-16 inch plants in seven colors. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall8–16 in (20–41 cm) Dahlia-flowered (estimated)
A Dropshot Irish Lace marigold flower up close on the plant Dropshot Irish Lace Tagetes filifolia herb marigold, 14 inch mounds of fine lacy foliage. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) 14 in (36 cm)Other
A Durango marigold flower up close on the plant Durango Compact French marigold series with 2 to 2.5-inch blooms on 8 to 12-inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall8–12 in (20–30 cm)French
A Envy zinnia flower up close on the plant Envy Lime-green semi-double zinnia, 3 to 4 inch blooms, plants about 30 inches tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2–2½ ft (61–76 cm)Semi-double
A Eskimo marigold flower up close on the plant Eskimo Compact white African marigold with fully double creamy white flowers, 12 to 18 inches. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall12–18 in (30–46 cm)African
A Evening Sun sunflower flower up close on the plant Evening Sun Multi-branching sunflower with 4–6 inch blooms in red, orange and burgundy. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall 6–8 ft (183–244 cm) (estimated) Branching
A Firecracker sunflower flower up close on the plant Firecracker F1 branching sunflower, 36–46 in. tall, with pollenless red and gold flowers. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall3–4 ft (91–117 cm)Branching
A French Vanilla marigold flower up close on the plant French Vanilla White African marigold with rounded 3-inch flowers that age from vanilla white to yellow. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall 12–16 in (30–41 cm) (estimated) African
A Giant Cactus Flowered zinnia flower up close on the plant Giant Cactus Flowered Mixed cactus-flowered zinnia with quilled petals, 2 to 4 ft tall, blooms 35 to 80 days from seed. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2–4 ft (61–122 cm)Cactus-flowered
Giant Cactus Pinca Cactus-flowered zinnia mix, 5-inch quilled blooms in pink, yellow, mauve and orange, 3 ft tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall3 ft (91 cm)Cactus-flowered
A Giant Primrose sunflower flower up close on the plant Giant Primrose Top-branching sunflower 8 to 12 feet tall with many pale creamy yellow flowers. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer8–12 ft (244–366 cm)Branching
A Harlequin marigold flower up close on the plant Harlequin Tall heirloom French marigold with single golden-orange blooms striped mahogany. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall3 ft (91 cm)French
A Inca zinnia flower up close on the plant Inca Orange cactus-type zinnia, 5-inch fully double blooms with spidery petals, 3 ft tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall3 ft (91 cm)Cactus-flowered
A Inca II marigold flower up close on the plant Inca II Compact F1 African marigold with 4 to 5 inch double blooms in yellow, gold and orange. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall12–14 in (30–36 cm)African
A Indian Summer black-eyed Susan flower up close on the plant Indian Summer AAS winning black-eyed Susan with 4 to 7 inch golden flowers on tall, sturdy stems. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall3–3½ ft (91–107 cm)Rudbeckia hirta
A Isabellina zinnia flower up close on the plant Isabellina Heirloom cream-yellow zinnia on 3-4 ft plants, good for cutting. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall3–4 ft (91–127 cm) Dahlia-flowered (estimated)
A Italian White sunflower flower up close on the plant Italian White Heirloom branching sunflower with 4 inch cream petals around a dark center. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall4–6 ft (122–183 cm)Branching
A Jade sunflower flower up close on the plant Jade Pollenless branching sunflower with pale greenish white petals and lime-green centers. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer3–4 ft (91–122 cm)Branching
A Janie marigold flower up close on the plant Janie Dwarf French marigold series with double 1 to 2-inch blooms on 8 to 10-inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall8–10 in (20–25 cm)French
A Jazzy Mix zinnia flower up close on the plant Jazzy Mix Mexican zinnia mix, 1 to 2 inch bicolor semi-double blooms, 20 to 26 inches tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall1½–2 ft (51–66 cm)Semi-double
A Kilimanjaro White marigold flower up close on the plant Kilimanjaro White White African marigold with 3-inch fully double creamy white blooms. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall1½–2 ft (46–61 cm)African
A Kong sunflower flower up close on the plant Kong F1 hybrid giant sunflower 13 to 14 feet tall, branching, with heads up to 10 inches golden yellow heads. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer13–14 ft (400–427 cm)Branching
Lady Upright African marigold with fully double bright yellow blooms. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall 1½–2½ ft (46–76 cm) (estimated) African
A Lemon Drop marigold flower up close on the plant Lemon Drop Compact French marigold with 1-inch double lemon-yellow flowers, under 12 inches tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall 6–12 in (15–30 cm) (estimated) French
A Lemon Gem marigold flower up close on the plant Lemon Gem Signet marigold with small lemon-yellow edible flowers on 10-18 inch mounds. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall10–18 in (25–46 cm)Signet
A Lemon Queen sunflower flower up close on the plant Lemon Queen Branching sunflower 5 to 7 feet tall with lemon yellow flowers and brown centers. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer5–7 ft (152–213 cm)Branching
A Lemon Star marigold flower up close on the plant Lemon Star Signet marigold, lemon-yellow flowers with a maroon central star on 10-18 inch mounds. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall10–18 in (25–46 cm)Signet
A Lilliput zinnia flower up close on the plant Lilliput Pompon zinnia with 1-1.5 inch flowers in red, pink, orange, purple, yellow and white. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall1½–2 ft (46–61 cm)Pompon
A Little Becka sunflower flower up close on the plant Little Becka Branching, pollenless sunflower, 2–3 ft tall, with copper-red and yellow flowers. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2–3 ft (61–91 cm)Branching
A Macarenia zinnia flower up close on the plant Macarenia Open-pollinated zinnia, double crimson blooms edged in gold on 2-3 ft plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2–3 ft (61–91 cm)Dahlia-flowered
A Magellan zinnia flower up close on the plant Magellan Dwarf F1 zinnia series with 5 to 6 inch double blooms on 12 to 18 inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall12–18 in (30–46 cm) Dahlia-flowered (estimated)
A Mammoth sunflower flower up close on the plant Mammoth Heirloom giant sunflower: one 10–12 inch yellow head on a single stalk up to 12 ft. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall12 ft (366 cm)Single stem
A Mazurkia zinnia flower up close on the plant Mazurkia Bicolor zinnia, 3 inch double scarlet blooms tipped white, 20 to 30 inches tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall1½–2½ ft (51–76 cm)Dahlia-flowered
A Moreno black-eyed Susan flower up close on the plant Moreno Early, compact black-eyed Susan with mahogany red flowers tipped golden orange. Late spring, Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer12 in (30 cm)Rudbeckia hirta
A Moulin Rouge sunflower flower up close on the plant Moulin Rouge Pollenless branching F1 sunflower with deep burgundy 3–6 inch blooms. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall5–6½ ft (152–203 cm)Branching
A Mr. Majestic marigold flower up close on the plant Mr. Majestic Dwarf French marigold with single blooms striped mahogany and gold. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall9–12 in (23–30 cm)French
A Naughty Marietta marigold flower up close on the plant Naughty Marietta Short French marigold with single deep yellow blooms marked maroon. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall 8–12 in (20–30 cm) (estimated) French
A Oklahoma zinnia flower up close on the plant Oklahoma Small double and semi-double cutting zinnia, 1.5 to 2.5 inch blooms, 30 to 40 inches tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2½–3½ ft (76–102 cm)Semi-double
A Old Mexico zinnia flower up close on the plant Old Mexico Heirloom Mexican zinnia, mahogany blooms tipped gold on 12-18 inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall12–18 in (30–46 cm)Semi-double
A Orange Cactus zinnia flower up close on the plant Orange Cactus Tangerine cactus-flowered zinnia, 4 to 6 inch blooms, 2 to 4 ft tall, 75 to 90 days from seed. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2–4 ft (61–122 cm)Cactus-flowered
A Orange Hobbit sunflower flower up close on the plant Orange Hobbit Dwarf branching sunflower with pollenless 4 to 7 inch orange flowers, 30 to 40 inches tall. Midsummer, Late summer2½–3½ ft (76–102 cm)Branching
A Paprika marigold flower up close on the plant Paprika Signet marigold, dime-sized deep red flowers edged gold on 10-12 inch mounds. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall10–12 in (25–30 cm)Signet
A Peppermint Stick zinnia flower up close on the plant Peppermint Stick Striped double zinnia mix, 2 to 4 inch blooms with red streaks, about 28 inches tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2½ ft (71 cm) Dahlia-flowered (estimated)
A Perfection marigold flower up close on the plant Perfection Mid-height F1 African marigold with 3.5-inch rounded yellow or orange blooms. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall14–16 in (36–41 cm)African
A Persian Carpet zinnia flower up close on the plant Persian Carpet Compact Mexican zinnia with 2-inch bicolor flowers in gold, orange, red and burgundy. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall12–18 in (30–46 cm)Semi-double
A Petite marigold flower up close on the plant Petite Dwarf French marigold mix with double gold, orange and yellow blooms. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall6–12 in (15–30 cm)French
A Polar Bear zinnia flower up close on the plant Polar Bear White dahlia-type zinnia, double blooms about 4 inches across, tall stems for cutting. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2½–3½ ft (76–102 cm)Dahlia-flowered
A Prairie Sun black-eyed Susan flower up close on the plant Prairie Sun Black-eyed Susan with golden, primrose tipped petals around a green center. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2½ ft (71–81 cm)Rudbeckia hirta
A ProCut Lemon Lite sunflower flower up close on the plant ProCut Lemon Lite Pollenless single-stem cut sunflower with pale lemon-yellow 4 to 6 inch flowers, 50 to 60 days. Midsummer, Late summer4–6 ft (122–183 cm)Single stem
A ProCut Orange sunflower flower up close on the plant ProCut Orange Pollenless single-stem cut sunflower with 4 to 6 inch orange flowers, 50 to 60 days. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer5–6 ft (152–183 cm)Single stem
A ProCut Orange DMR sunflower flower up close on the plant ProCut Orange DMR Downy mildew resistant ProCut orange sunflower, pollenless and single-stem, 52 to 62 days. Midsummer, Late summer5½–6 ft (163–188 cm)Single stem
A ProCut Orange Excel sunflower flower up close on the plant ProCut Orange Excel Early pollenless single-stem cut sunflower with 4 to 6 inch orange flowers, 50 to 55 days. Midsummer, Late summer5–6 ft (152–183 cm)Single stem
A ProCut Red sunflower flower up close on the plant ProCut Red Pollenless single-stem F1 cut sunflower with deep red 3–6 inch flowers. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall5–6 ft (152–183 cm)Single stem
A ProCut White Nite sunflower flower up close on the plant ProCut White Nite Pollenless cut sunflower with creamy, almost white petals and a dark center. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer5–6 ft (152–183 cm)Single stem
A Profusion zinnia flower up close on the plant Profusion Compact F1 hybrid zinnia with 2-inch single flowers on 14-18 inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall14–18 in (36–46 cm) Single (estimated)
A Purple Prince zinnia flower up close on the plant Purple Prince Heirloom dahlia-flowered zinnia with amethyst-purple blooms on 30–40 inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2½–3½ ft (76–102 cm)Dahlia-flowered
A Queen Lime zinnia flower up close on the plant Queen Lime Heirloom dahlia-type zinnia with fully double apple green blooms on 30 to 40 inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2½–3½ ft (76–102 cm)Dahlia-flowered
A Queen Sophia marigold flower up close on the plant Queen Sophia French marigold with fully double mahogany-red blooms edged in gold. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall10–12 in (25–30 cm)French
A Red Cherry marigold flower up close on the plant Red Cherry Compact French marigold with deep red petals backed in yellow. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall6–10 in (15–25 cm)French
A Red Gem marigold flower up close on the plant Red Gem Signet marigold with small single red edible flowers on compact mounds. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall10–18 in (25–46 cm)Signet
A Red Sun sunflower flower up close on the plant Red Sun Branching sunflower with 5–6 inch smoky burgundy to copper flowers. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall5–6 ft (152–183 cm)Branching
A Ruby Eclipse sunflower flower up close on the plant Ruby Eclipse Pollenless branching F1 sunflower with ruby-red, lemon-tipped 4–5 inch flowers. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall6 ft (183 cm)Branching
A Safari marigold flower up close on the plant Safari Dwarf French marigold mix about a foot tall in orange, scarlet, yellow and tangerine. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall 12 in (30 cm) (estimated) French
A Sahara black-eyed Susan flower up close on the plant Sahara Compact black-eyed Susan with double blooms in copper, brown, pale yellow and soft rose. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall20–22 in (51–56 cm)Rudbeckia hirta
A Senora zinnia flower up close on the plant Senora Coral-pink cactus-type zinnia, 4 to 5 inch semi-double to double blooms, 36 to 40 inches tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall3–3½ ft (91–102 cm)Cactus-flowered
A Senorita zinnia flower up close on the plant Senorita Coral-pink cactus-type zinnia with spiky, curled petals on 3 ft plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall3 ft (91 cm)Cactus-flowered
A Short Stuff zinnia flower up close on the plant Short Stuff Dwarf zinnia series with fully double 2.5 to 4 in blooms on 8 to 10 in plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall8–10 in (20–25 cm) Dahlia-flowered (estimated)
A Skyscraper sunflower flower up close on the plant Skyscraper Single-stem giant sunflower, 10 to 12 feet tall with 14-inch yellow heads. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer10–12 ft (305–366 cm)Single stem
A Sparky Mix marigold flower up close on the plant Sparky Mix Open-pollinated French marigold mix, double yellow to red flowers on 10-12 inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall10–12 in (25–30 cm)French
A Star zinnia flower up close on the plant Star Orange Compact narrowleaf zinnia with orange star-shaped single blooms, about 14 in tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall14 in (35–36 cm) Single (estimated)
A Starburst Lemon Aura sunflower flower up close on the plant Starburst Lemon Aura Pollenless branching sunflower with fully double pale yellow flowers. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer4–5 ft (122–152 cm)Branching
A Starfire Mix marigold flower up close on the plant Starfire Mix Tall signet marigold mix, penny-sized red, orange and gold blooms for cutting. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2–2½ ft (61–76 cm)Signet
A State Fair zinnia flower up close on the plant State Fair Heirloom zinnia mix with 3–5 inch dahlia-type blooms on 30–36 inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2½–3 ft (76–91 cm)Dahlia-flowered
A Strawberry Blonde marigold flower up close on the plant Strawberry Blonde Dwarf French marigold with double blooms that shift from red to apricot and peach. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall8–10 in (20–25 cm)French
A Strawberry Blonde sunflower flower up close on the plant Strawberry Blonde Pollenless F1 branching sunflower, burgundy to pink petals with lemon tips. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall5–6 ft (152–183 cm)Branching
A Sugar & Spice White marigold flower up close on the plant Sugar & Spice White African marigold with 3-inch cream blooms fading to white with pink flecks. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2½ ft (76 cm)African
A SunBuzz sunflower flower up close on the plant SunBuzz Compact F1 pot sunflower, 12–20 in. tall, with pollen-free yellow flowers. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall12–20 in (30–51 cm) Branching (estimated)
A Sunny Smile sunflower flower up close on the plant Sunny Smile Hybrid dwarf, pollenless sunflower, 15–20 in. tall, with a branching habit. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall15–20 in (38–51 cm)Branching
A Sunrich Orange sunflower flower up close on the plant Sunrich Orange Pollenless single-stem cut sunflower with 4 to 6 inch orange flowers. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer4–5 ft (122–152 cm)Single stem
A Sunspot sunflower flower up close on the plant Sunspot Dwarf sunflower, 18–24 in. tall, with yellow heads 6–10 in. across. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall1½–2 ft (46–61 cm) Single stem (estimated)
A Suntastic sunflower flower up close on the plant Suntastic AAS-winning dwarf sunflower up to 20 in. tall with yellow, black-centered flowers. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall 12–20 in (30–51 cm) (estimated) Branching (estimated)
A Sunzilla sunflower flower up close on the plant Sunzilla F1 hybrid giant sunflower, 10 to 16 feet tall with large golden yellow heads. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer10–16 ft (305–488 cm)Single stem
A Super Hero marigold flower up close on the plant Super Hero Dwarf French marigold mixture with densely double 2-inch blooms on 10 to 12-inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall10–12 in (25–30 cm)French
A Swizzle zinnia flower up close on the plant Swizzle Dwarf bicolor zinnia series, 4-inch cherry-ivory or scarlet-yellow blooms, 10 to 12 in tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall10–12 in (25–30 cm)Double
A Taishan marigold flower up close on the plant Taishan Dwarf African marigold with 3 to 4 inch blooms in yellow, gold and orange. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall10–12 in (25–30 cm)African
A Tangerine Gem marigold flower up close on the plant Tangerine Gem Signet marigold with small tangerine-orange edible flowers on 10-18 inch mounds. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall10–18 in (25–46 cm)Signet
A Teddy Bear sunflower flower up close on the plant Teddy Bear Double, shaggy yellow sunflower with 3–5 inch blooms on 30–42 inch single-stem plants. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2½–3½ ft (76–107 cm)Single stem
A Thumbelina zinnia flower up close on the plant Thumbelina Dwarf AAS-winning zinnia mix with 1-inch semi-double flowers on 6-inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall 6–10 in (15–25 cm) (estimated) Semi-double
A Tiger Eye Gold black-eyed Susan flower up close on the plant Tiger Eye Gold Annual black-eyed Susan with golden daisies and a dark brown eye on 15 to 18 inch plants. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) 15–18 in (38–46 cm)Rudbeckia hirta
A Titan sunflower flower up close on the plant Titan Heirloom giant sunflower, 10 to 14 feet tall with heads up to 24 inches across. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer10–14 ft (305–427 cm) Single stem (estimated)
A Unicorn Mix zinnia flower up close on the plant Unicorn Mix Floret zinnia mix of domed multitoned blooms with lavender centers, 40 to 52 in tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall3½–4½ ft (102–132 cm) Dahlia-flowered (estimated)
A Uproar Rose zinnia flower up close on the plant Uproar Rose F1 zinnia with 4-5 inch double rose-pink blooms on 28-36 inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2½–3 ft (71–91 cm) Dahlia-flowered (estimated)
A Valentine sunflower flower up close on the plant Valentine Open-pollinated branching sunflower, 55–60 in. tall, with lemon-yellow flowers. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall4½–5 ft (140–152 cm)Branching
A Vanilla marigold flower up close on the plant Vanilla F1 African marigold with fully double creamy white blooms on 16-inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall16 in (41 cm)African
A Vanilla Ice sunflower flower up close on the plant Vanilla Ice Multi-branched Helianthus debilis, about 5 ft tall, with creamy light yellow flowers. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall5 ft (152 cm)Branching
A Velvet Queen sunflower flower up close on the plant Velvet Queen Heirloom branching sunflower with red to mahogany blooms up to 8 inches. Midsummer, Late summer, Fall5–7 ft (152–213 cm)Branching
A Whirligig zinnia flower up close on the plant Whirligig Zinnia mix of bicolor blooms with contrasting petal tips on 24 inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2 ft (61 cm) Semi-double (estimated)
A White Swan marigold flower up close on the plant White Swan Tall cut-flower African marigold with cream to pale yellow double blooms. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2½–3 ft (71–91 cm)African
A Zahara zinnia flower up close on the plant Zahara Dwarf mildew-resistant zinnia, single 1.5 to 2.5 inch blooms, 12 to 20 inches tall. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall12–20 in (30–51 cm)Single
A Zenith marigold flower up close on the plant Zenith F1 triploid marigold series, 2-3 inch double blooms on 12-15 inch plants. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) 12–15 in (30–38 cm)Triploid
A Zinderella zinnia flower up close on the plant Zinderella Scabiosa-flowered zinnia with 2 inch crested blooms in peach, lilac, purple, orange, red and white. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2–3 ft (61–91 cm)Scabiosa-flowered
A Zowie! Yellow Flame zinnia flower up close on the plant Zowie! Yellow Flame AAS-winning zinnia, semi-double blooms with magenta-scarlet centers and yellow tips. Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall2–2½ ft (61–76 cm)Semi-double

How to choose

  1. Measure the sun on your site. Virginia Cooperative Extension says a spot with more than three hours of unfiltered midday sun should also be treated as full sun.
  2. Compare the Height column so tall plants do not shade shorter ones.
  3. Check Days to bloom if your season is short.

Compare side by side

Color Sunlight
American Giant Single stem sunflower (estimated) 8–16 ft (244–488 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
Antigua African marigold 10–16 in (25–41 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Autumn Beauty Branching sunflower 8–10 ft (244–305 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Autumn Colors Rudbeckia hirta black-eyed Susan 2 ft (55–61 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) Full sun
Autumn Forest Rudbeckia hirta black-eyed Susan 18–22 in (46–56 cm) – Late spring, Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Aztec Sunset Dahlia-flowered zinnia (estimated) 6–10 in (15–25 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Benary's Giant Dahlia-flowered zinnia 3½–4 ft (102–127 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Big Smile Branching sunflower 1–2 ft (30–61 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Bonanza French marigold 6–10 in (15–25 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Boy O Boy French marigold 8 in (20 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Bright Jewels Cactus-flowered zinnia 3 ft (91 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Buttercream Branching sunflower (estimated) 4–5 ft (122–147 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
California Giant Dahlia-flowered zinnia (estimated) 2–4 ft (61–122 cm) (estimated) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Candy Cane Dahlia-flowered zinnia 1½–2 ft (43–61 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Cappuccino Rudbeckia hirta black-eyed Susan 18–20 in (46–51 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Cempasúchil African marigold 3–4 ft (91–122 cm) (estimated) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Cherry Brandy Rudbeckia hirta black-eyed Susan 1½–2 ft (51–61 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Chim Chiminee Rudbeckia hirta black-eyed Susan 2–2½ ft (61–76 cm) 5–8 Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) Full sun
Chocolate Cherry Branching sunflower 6–7 ft (183–213 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Cinnamon Sun Branching sunflower (estimated) 5–7 ft (152–213 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Claret Branching sunflower 6–6½ ft (180–200 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Climax African marigold 3 ft (91 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Crackerjack African marigold 2–3 ft (61–91 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Crystal Single zinnia 8–10 in (20–25 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Cut and Come Again Semi-double zinnia 2–3½ ft (61–107 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Disco French marigold 8–10 in (20–25 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Discovery African marigold 8–10 in (20–25 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Dreamland Dahlia-flowered zinnia (estimated) 8–16 in (20–41 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Dropshot Irish Lace Other marigold 14 in (36 cm) 1–13 Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) (estimated) Full sun
Durango French marigold 8–12 in (20–30 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) Full sun
Envy Semi-double zinnia 2–2½ ft (61–76 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Eskimo African marigold 12–18 in (30–46 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Evening Sun Branching sunflower 6–8 ft (183–244 cm) (estimated) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Firecracker Branching sunflower 3–4 ft (91–117 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
French Vanilla African marigold 12–16 in (30–41 cm) (estimated) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Giant Cactus Flowered Cactus-flowered zinnia 2–4 ft (61–122 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun, Part shade
Giant Cactus Pinca Cactus-flowered zinnia 3 ft (91 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Giant Primrose Branching sunflower 8–12 ft (244–366 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
Harlequin French marigold 3 ft (91 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Inca Cactus-flowered zinnia 3 ft (91 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Inca II African marigold 12–14 in (30–36 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Indian Summer Rudbeckia hirta black-eyed Susan 3–3½ ft (91–107 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Isabellina Dahlia-flowered zinnia (estimated) 3–4 ft (91–127 cm) 2–11 Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Italian White Branching sunflower 4–6 ft (122–183 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Jade Branching sunflower 3–4 ft (91–122 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
Janie French marigold 8–10 in (20–25 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Jazzy Mix Semi-double zinnia 1½–2 ft (51–66 cm) 1–13 Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Kilimanjaro White African marigold 1½–2 ft (46–61 cm) 3–10 Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Kong Branching sunflower 13–14 ft (400–427 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
Lady African marigold 1½–2½ ft (46–76 cm) (estimated) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Lemon Drop French marigold 6–12 in (15–30 cm) (estimated) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Lemon Gem Signet marigold 10–18 in (25–46 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Lemon Queen Branching sunflower 5–7 ft (152–213 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
Lemon Star Signet marigold 10–18 in (25–46 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Lilliput Pompon zinnia 1½–2 ft (46–61 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Little Becka Branching sunflower 2–3 ft (61–91 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Macarenia Dahlia-flowered zinnia 2–3 ft (61–91 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Magellan Dahlia-flowered zinnia (estimated) 12–18 in (30–46 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Mammoth Single stem sunflower 12 ft (366 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Mazurkia Dahlia-flowered zinnia 1½–2½ ft (51–76 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Moreno Rudbeckia hirta black-eyed Susan 12 in (30 cm) – Late spring, Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
Moulin Rouge Branching sunflower 5–6½ ft (152–203 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Mr. Majestic French marigold 9–12 in (23–30 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Naughty Marietta French marigold 8–12 in (20–30 cm) (estimated) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Oklahoma Semi-double zinnia 2½–3½ ft (76–102 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Old Mexico Semi-double zinnia 12–18 in (30–46 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Orange Cactus Cactus-flowered zinnia 2–4 ft (61–122 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Orange Hobbit Branching sunflower 2½–3½ ft (76–102 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer (estimated) Full sun
Paprika Signet marigold 10–12 in (25–30 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Peppermint Stick Dahlia-flowered zinnia (estimated) 2½ ft (71 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Perfection African marigold 14–16 in (36–41 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Persian Carpet Semi-double zinnia 12–18 in (30–46 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Petite French marigold 6–12 in (15–30 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Polar Bear Dahlia-flowered zinnia 2½–3½ ft (76–102 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Prairie Sun Rudbeckia hirta black-eyed Susan 2½ ft (71–81 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
ProCut Lemon Lite Single stem sunflower 4–6 ft (122–183 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
ProCut Orange Single stem sunflower 5–6 ft (152–183 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
ProCut Orange DMR Single stem sunflower 5½–6 ft (163–188 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
ProCut Orange Excel Single stem sunflower 5–6 ft (152–183 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
ProCut Red Single stem sunflower 5–6 ft (152–183 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
ProCut White Nite Single stem sunflower 5–6 ft (152–183 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
Profusion Single zinnia (estimated) 14–18 in (36–46 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Purple Prince Dahlia-flowered zinnia 2½–3½ ft (76–102 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Queen Lime Dahlia-flowered zinnia 2½–3½ ft (76–102 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Queen Sophia French marigold 10–12 in (25–30 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Red Cherry French marigold 6–10 in (15–25 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Red Gem Signet marigold 10–18 in (25–46 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Red Sun Branching sunflower 5–6 ft (152–183 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Ruby Eclipse Branching sunflower 6 ft (183 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Safari French marigold 12 in (30 cm) (estimated) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Sahara Rudbeckia hirta black-eyed Susan 20–22 in (51–56 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Senora Cactus-flowered zinnia 3–3½ ft (91–102 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Senorita Cactus-flowered zinnia 3 ft (91 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Short Stuff Dahlia-flowered zinnia (estimated) 8–10 in (20–25 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Skyscraper Single stem sunflower 10–12 ft (305–366 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
Sparky Mix French marigold 10–12 in (25–30 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Star Orange Single zinnia (estimated) 14 in (35–36 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) Full sun
Starburst Lemon Aura Branching sunflower 4–5 ft (122–152 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
Starfire Mix Signet marigold 2–2½ ft (61–76 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
State Fair Dahlia-flowered zinnia 2½–3 ft (76–91 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Strawberry Blonde French marigold 8–10 in (20–25 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Strawberry Blonde Branching sunflower 5–6 ft (152–183 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Sugar & Spice White African marigold 2½ ft (76 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
SunBuzz Branching sunflower (estimated) 12–20 in (30–51 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Sunny Smile Branching sunflower 15–20 in (38–51 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) Full sun
Sunrich Orange Single stem sunflower 4–5 ft (122–152 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
Sunspot Single stem sunflower (estimated) 1½–2 ft (46–61 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Suntastic Branching sunflower (estimated) 12–20 in (30–51 cm) (estimated) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Sunzilla Single stem sunflower 10–16 ft (305–488 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
Super Hero French marigold 10–12 in (25–30 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Swizzle Double zinnia 10–12 in (25–30 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Taishan African marigold 10–12 in (25–30 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Tangerine Gem Signet marigold 10–18 in (25–46 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Teddy Bear Single stem sunflower 2½–3½ ft (76–107 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Thumbelina Semi-double zinnia 6–10 in (15–25 cm) (estimated) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Tiger Eye Gold Rudbeckia hirta black-eyed Susan 15–18 in (38–46 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) Full sun
Titan Single stem sunflower (estimated) 10–14 ft (305–427 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer Full sun
Unicorn Mix Dahlia-flowered zinnia (estimated) 3½–4½ ft (102–132 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Uproar Rose Dahlia-flowered zinnia (estimated) 2½–3 ft (71–91 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Valentine Branching sunflower 4½–5 ft (140–152 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Vanilla African marigold 16 in (41 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Vanilla Ice Branching sunflower 5 ft (152 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Velvet Queen Branching sunflower 5–7 ft (152–213 cm) – Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Whirligig Semi-double zinnia (estimated) 2 ft (61 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
White Swan African marigold 2½–3 ft (71–91 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Zahara Single zinnia 12–20 in (30–51 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Zenith Triploid marigold 12–15 in (30–38 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall (estimated) Full sun
Zinderella Scabiosa-flowered zinnia 2–3 ft (61–91 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Zowie! Yellow Flame Semi-double zinnia 2–2½ ft (61–76 cm) – Early summer, Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun

Values marked like this (estimated) are estimates.

Frequently asked questions

How many hours of sun is full sun?

Virginia Cooperative Extension uses six or more hours of direct sunlight a day, and Penn State Extension says most flowers need 6 to 8 hours.