Sunflower variety Donской крупносемянный is an early-maturing crop with a vegetation period of about 95-100 days. Plants reach a height of approximately 185 cm, and the flower head diameter varies from 17 to 25 cm. This variety is distinguished by high yield, averaging 35.3 to 39.9 c/ha, with a potential maximum of 36 c/ha. Seeds are dark, almost black, with weak dark-gray striped pattern, containing 50-54% oil at 22-24% moisture. Donской крупносемянный sunflower adapts well to various soils and climatic conditions, being resistant to drought, lodging, rust, fomopsis, verticillium, sunflower moth, rot, and false powdery mildew. However, the variety poorly tolerates dense planting, so it is recommended to maintain optimal plant density: 35-40 thousand/ha in steppe zone and 42-55 thousand/ha in forest-steppe zone.
This sunflower is one of the highest-oil content varieties registered in Ukraine, making it especially valuable for oil production. High oil content and resistance to pests and diseases, including pests like sunflower moth and sunflower beetle, ensure stable and high-quality harvest even under adverse conditions. Early maturity allows effective planning of agronomic activities and timely harvest.
Moreover, Donской крупносемянный sunflower belongs to confectionery types, due to large seed size and specific qualities. Large seed fraction is used for producing light snacks in crushed and roasted forms, accounting for about 25% of total volume. Medium fraction, which constitutes 40-60% of mass, is used for crushing and subsequent roasting, often with salt addition, and sold in packaged form. Seeds are also used raw as ingredients for salads, baked goods, and other culinary products, expanding the application possibilities of this variety.
