Helianthus maximiliani (Maximilian Sunflower)
Botanical name: Helianthus maximiliani
Common name: Maximilian Sunflower
Family: Asteraceae
Origin: North America
USDA Zone: 3-9
Plant form: Small
Mature height: 2-5 ft
Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor
Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.
Watering: Moderate
Flower color: Yellow, orange
Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing
Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirdsA branching perennial herb, growing from a stout rhizome and reaches heights. The slender, tall, erect stems and alternately-arranged leaves are covered in rough hairs. Large, showy, yellow blooms occur throughout the full 5-7 feet height of the plant in great abundance during late summer and fall. During this period, the plant adds a brilliant splash of color and texture to range sites, natural areas, and landscapes.
The thick rhizome is edible and provided a food similar to the Jerusalem artichoke.
It may be used as a natural hedge or tall screen to block out harsh areas. It also makes a colorful, attractive landscape plant.
It has the potential of being an excellent filter strip plant due to its seemingly great ability to uptake and use excess water and nutrients.