Helianthus californicus, commonly known as California sunflower, is a perennial herb native to the chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and valley grasslands of California and Baja California. It is characterized by an erect growth habit, reaching heights of 3-10 feet, with lance-shaped leaves that can grow up to 8 inches long. The inflorescence bears multiple flower heads, each with golden yellow ray florets surrounding a center of yellow and brown disc florets, blooming from late summer to early fall. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators and are quite showy, making the plant stand out in its natural setting.

California sunflower is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used in restoration projects, as it can help stabilize soil and provide habitat for wildlife. In gardens, it serves as an excellent background plant in borders or as part of a wildflower meadow. It prefers full sun and requires minimal water once established, tolerating a range of soil types as long as they are well-drained. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust, especially in humid conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0