Scientific Name
Helianthus spp.
Common Name
Sunflower

Characteristics

Season
late summer and fall
Height
60-84 inches
Hardiness
USDA Hardiness Zone 6-9
Flower Color
yellow
Soil
moist, some species tolerate poor drainage
Exposure
full sun to light shade
Propagation
division, cuttings, seed
North Carolina Regions
Mountains, Piedmont, Coastal Plain
Comments
There are 150 species of sunflower, including H. annuus, the giant sunflower from which we get seed and oil; and H. tuberosum, the roots of which form Jerusalem Artichokes. All species are tall and many can be invasive, but their bright yellow summer and fall flowers make up for any inconvenience.
Origin
Eastern USA, North Carolina, hybrid origin

Prepared by: orginally by Alice B. Russell, retired Extension Specialist, NC State University
                     maintained and expanded by Erv Evans, Consumer Horticulturist, NC State University

Images: ©Alice B. Russell and Erv Evans

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