Common Sunflower

(Helianthus annuus)

Common Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Helianthus annuus, commonly known as Common Sunflower, is an annual herb native to open grasslands and prairies of the United States into Mexico. It has been widely cultivated and naturalized across the United States and other parts of the world. The species is renowned for its large and showy flower heads, which can reach diameters of 30 cm (12 in), and for its rapid growth, often reaching heights of up to 3 meters (9.8 ft) in a single season. The sunflower has a sturdy, hairy stem and broad, coarsely toothed leaves. The iconic flower heads consist of a central disk of densely packed small flowers, which mature into the edible seeds, surrounded by bright yellow ray flowers that resemble petals.

The Common Sunflower is valued for its seeds, which are a source of edible oil and snacks, and for its ability to attract wildlife, particularly birds. It is also used as livestock forage and in some industrial applications. In gardens, it is often grown as an ornamental plant for its striking appearance and to provide structure to borders and backdrops. Sunflowers thrive in full sun and require fertile, moist, well-drained soil with a heavy mulch to retain moisture. They are relatively easy to maintain but can be susceptible to fungal diseases and pests such as aphids and birds. While it is not typically invasive, it can self-seed and become weedy in cultivated areas. It is important to manage its spread to prevent it from becoming a nuisance.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 3-9 feet
  • Width: 1.5-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to open grasslands and prairies of the Central United States

Other Names

Common Names: Garden Sunflower , Annual Sunflower , Wild Sunflower , Sonnenblume , Girasol , Grand Soleil , Hélianthe Annuel , Soleil , Tournesol , Girasole

Scientific Names: Helianthus annuus , Helianthus pumilus , Helianthus annuus subsp. lenticularis , Helianthus annuus var. annuus , Helianthus annuus subsp. annuus , Helianthus lenticularis , Helianthus annuus subsp. jaegeri , Helianthus annuus var. pumilus , Helianthus aridus , Helianthus annuus f. lenticularis

GBIF Accepted Name: Helianthus annuus L.