Black Russian is a tall Helianthus annuus that reaches 12 to 15 feet with 8-inch blooms, bright golden petals and variable dark centers. Sow 1/2 to 1 inch deep, 18 to 24 inches apart outdoors after frost in soil over 70ºF; sprouts in 7 to 14 days with blooms in about 65 to 75 days.
Packet holds 20 black striped seeds. Plants branch upright and suit flower beds and cut bouquets, and spent heads can stay for birds.
