Sunflower Vanilla Ice Seeds

A graceful and lightly branching sunflower with soft creamy-yellow petals and dark central discs, offering a refined alternative to bold golden varieties. Vanilla Ice produces multiple medium-sized blooms on slender stems, creating a relaxed, airy effect that suits cottage gardens, wildlife borders and cutting beds.

The pale blooms blend beautifully with pastel planting schemes and attract bees and butterflies throughout summer. Compact and free-flowering, this variety is ideal for smaller spaces and adds a touch of elegance to sunny garden spots.

Seed Qty

Approx 50

Sow March to May (indoors from March; direct sow after last frost)

Germination 7 to 14 days

Soil and Position Loam, chalk or sandy soil in full sun; enrich soil with compost before planting

Height 120–150 cm

Flowering July to September

Planting ideas Cottage borders, wildlife gardens, pastel schemes, cutting beds

Sowing instructions

Sow seeds 1.5 cm deep in trays or pots indoors from March, keeping compost moist and warm. Transplant seedlings after hardening off, spacing 30–40 cm apart. Alternatively, sow directly into prepared soil outdoors from April to May, spacing seeds in blocks or rows for best effect.

Grow and maintenance

Grow in full sun in well drained soil. Water regularly during dry spells and support taller stems if needed. Deadhead to encourage further blooming or leave seed heads to mature for wildlife. Avoid overfeeding, which can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.

Uses and benefits

Perfect for soft summer displays, wildlife-friendly planting and elegant cut flowers. The creamy blooms complement roses, cosmos and ornamental grasses, while the branching habit ensures a long flowering period. Vanilla Ice adds subtle charm and ecological value to any sunny garden.