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BIG, BOLD AND VIBRANT – the sunflower never fails to deliver uplifting vibes. Although we’re a while off seeing this flower in full bloom, over the last year they have become well associated with war-torn Ukraine. Adopted as the symbol of the country’s spirit and identity, sunflowers are Ukraine’s national flower. So as Liverpool hosts the Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of Ukraine and the city parties like never before, I’d like to invite you to grow a sunflower or two. This gesture would not only serve as a sign of our solidarity with Ukraine but without dampening the mood, a stark reminder that when the fun is over here, Ukraine will still be very much at war. Like poppies and cornflowers, sunflowers are flowers of the fields and are deeply rooted in Ukraine’s cultural heritage. They are often seen at festive gatherings and weddings as part of the Vinok, a traditional Ukrainian wreath worn by girls and young women.
34 YM Liverpool
Heather Marsh on the beauty and significance of Ukraine’s national flower
Aside from their use as fashion accessories, sunflowers are a valuable part of the Ukrainian economy – the country is the world’s biggest exporter of sunflower oil. Thanks to its rich soil and long dry summers, sunflowers are grown in abundance everywhere and by everyone in Ukraine, with an estimated 6.5 million hectares of sunflower crops produced each year. Every part of the plant is used to its full capacity – the seeds have long been a popular nutritious snack whilst flour is made from grounding the seeds and of course, the oil is used in cooking and low-fat spreads. What you might not know, however, is that Ukraine produces vast quantities of sunflower honey and it’s thought to be the most popular kind of its type. After Russia’s full invasion last year, the number of sunflowers being planted in Ukraine dropped off dramatically – as did its production of honey – with many hives left unattended as beekeepers went off to fight.
