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Can You Grow Sunflower in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grows well here

Sunflowers grow brilliantly here — they love the warm season and produce quickly.

Plant zones

2a–11b

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

60–80 days

When to plant Sunflowers in California

Direct sow

Jan 10

Harvest

Mar 11 – Mar 31

Dates are approximate, based on California's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Sunflower

Sunflowers are fast-growing cheerful and attract pollinators — some varieties produce edible seeds.

Direct sow after last frost in the sunniest spot available. No transplanting needed. Giant varieties need staking. Harvest seed heads when the back turns brown and seeds are firm.

Full sunflower growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.