Sunflower
Helianthus annuus
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Details & Attributes
| Plant Type(s) | Annual |
| Native to Arizona | Yes! |
| Water Needs | Low-moderate |
| Sun | Full sun, partial shade |
| Pollinators | Bees, butterflies |
| Has Spines | No |
| Size In relative feet, width by height |
3-6' × 3-6' |
| Flowering Season | March-October |
| Flower Color | Yellow with a dark center |
| Minimum Temperature Range | 20-30 °F (may be able to take lower temps, but will most likely freeze back) |
| Leaf Description | Typically ovate and borne on long petioles, leaves may be alternate or opposite |
| Fruit | Good sized achenes (dry single seeded fruit), these are small versions of the sunflower seeds which are such a common summertime snack. |
| View on SEINet | View SEINet Entry |
| Range Map | View SEINet Range Map |
| Elevation Range | 1000-7000 ft. |
| Description | A widespread and variable sunflower which occurs as a native or introduced species in every state of the contiguous U.S., and which has been introduced to much of the planet in the form of the sunflowers seen bordering garden beds. Seed planted from native Arizona seed stock will be a far cry from the monster "mammoth" sunflowers purchased at garden centers. Native Arizona plants are typically heavily branched and feature small blooms with the characteristic sunflower look. This is a great plant to include in gardens for its pollinator value and edible seeds which are relished by birds, and which have been an important food source to North Americans for thousands of years. |
