Sunflower, Annual

The state flower of Kansas, Annual Sunflower is widely distributed across North America. One of the tallest growing helianthus members, up to 12 ft, this annual prefers to grow in well drained, disturbed soils with full sun exposure. The bright yellow and brown flowers are in bloom from July-September providing excellent forage for many pollinating insects. The seeds are a food staple for many wildlife species and song birds through the winter months. Historically, this plant was utilized by Native American tribes for many different medicinal purposes. This plant makes and excellent border species in butterfly gardens or any other native garden plantings.