The ES Sherpa hybrid sunflower is a mid-season variety included in the State Register for the Central Chernozem and North Caucasus regions. Plants reach a height of about 160 cm, have medium-sized heart-shaped leaves with moderate lobing and serration. The sunflower head is of medium diameter — approximately 23 cm, with yellow ray and disc florets. Seeds are narrowly egg-shaped, medium-thickness, primarily black with gray stripes along the edges and sides. The plant does not branch, and the head orientation at maturity varies from half-turned downward to fully turned downward. ES Sherpa exhibits high resistance to stress conditions, lodging, and a broad spectrum of diseases, including phomopsis, phomosis, and sclerotinia. The hybrid has stable yield and high disease tolerance, making it a reliable choice for various climatic zones. Average yields in the regions range from 20.9 to 26.5 c/ha, with maximum yields reaching 36.4 c/ha in Voronezh Oblast and 41.3 c/ha in Krasnodar Krai. Oil content in seeds varies from 45.9% to 51%, ensuring high oil productivity. Recommended planting density depends on soil moisture levels: 50-55 thousand plants per hectare for areas with insufficient moisture, and 60-65 thousand plants per hectare for areas with adequate moisture. High oil content and resistance to major sunflower threats make ES Sherpa a profitable hybrid for cultivation under various agroclimatic conditions, ensuring a stable and high-quality yield.
