How to Grow and Care for Magic Roundabout Sunflower

The Magic Roundabout sunflower is set apart by the color-shifting display of its petals, creating a dynamic appearance throughout the bloom cycle. As the flowers continuously change, they offer different color combinations, providing a prolonged season of interest. The plant’s multi-branching habit also contributes to a fuller presence compared to single-stem sunflowers.

Unique Characteristics of the Magic Roundabout Sunflower

The defining trait of the Magic Roundabout sunflower is its color-changing petals. Blooms begin with creamy, light-yellow petals that frame a dark, chestnut-colored center. As the flower matures, the petals deepen in color, transitioning through shades of amber and saffron to deep crimson-red, creating a multi-toned effect on a single plant.

This variety features a well-branched structure, with each plant producing a dozen or more flowers. This multi-flowering habit results in a continuous display of color from summer through fall. The flowers are also pollen-free, making them a suitable option for cut flower arrangements without the mess of falling pollen.

Reaching a height of around six feet, the Magic Roundabout adds vertical interest to garden beds and borders. The numerous blooms it produces are held on sturdy stems. Its constant transformation and profusion of flowers mean the garden’s appearance subtly shifts with each passing week.

Growing from Seed

You can start seeds indoors two to three weeks before the last anticipated frost date to give plants a head start on the growing season. Use small pots or seed trays with drainage holes and a quality seed-starting mix for proper moisture control.

Whether starting indoors or sowing directly in the garden, place the seeds about half an inch to one inch deep into the soil. Maintain a soil temperature between 65-75°F to encourage germination, which occurs within 14 to 21 days.

Alternatively, sow seeds directly into the garden once all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Plant two seeds together in each spot, spacing them about 18 inches apart. After the seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them by removing the weaker of the two to prevent overcrowding.

Planting and Garden Care

Once seedlings are ready for the garden, select a location that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. Ample sun exposure powers the vigorous growth and prolific blooming that characterizes this variety.

The soil should be well-draining to prevent water from logging at the roots. While this sunflower tolerates poorer soils, enriching the area with garden compost before planting supports healthier development. Maintain a distance of about 18 inches between plants for good air circulation, which helps prevent fungal diseases.

A consistent watering schedule is important, especially during dry periods, as regular watering supports the production of numerous flowers. Due to its tall, multi-branching nature, providing support with stakes can prevent stems from breaking in strong winds or under the weight of their many blooms.

Harvesting and End-of-Season Tasks

You can harvest the flower heads for seeds, for either replanting or roasting, once the back of the flower turns yellow-brown and the petals are dry. At this stage, the seeds are fully developed and ready for collection.

To harvest, cut the flower head from the stalk, leaving a few inches of stem attached for easier handling. Protect the seeds from birds by covering the drying heads with netting or a paper bag. Hang the heads upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area to cure, which can take several weeks.

Once the heads are thoroughly dry, the seeds can be removed by rubbing the face of the flower. Store the collected seeds in a cool, dry place. The remaining plant stalks can be cut down at the base and added to your compost pile to enrich the soil for the following season.