Maximilian’s Sunflower
Helianthus maximiliani
Photo by Sandy Smith
Summary
The towering Maximilian’s sunflower rises head and shoulders above most other flowers in summer–literally!
This member of the Asteraceae family was named for the naturalist Prince Maximilian of Wied-Neuwied, Germany, who led an expedition into the American West in the early 1830s. Native to the prairies, it has naturalized eastward to our area. It spreads via rhizomes and has an enthusiastic growth habit, so be sure to place it where it has room to roam! Growing up to 10 feet tall in sun or part shade, its nectar attracts a number of bees (both short- and long-tongued), butterflies, and moths. At the SBG, you’ll find it in our Backyard Bird area.
More Details
FAMILY
Asteraceae (Aster)
BLOOM TIME
September-October
FLOWER
Yellow
MATURE SIZE
8-10 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Sun
SOIL CONDITIONS
Moist to Dry
NATIVE STATUS
PA Native
Ecosystem Connections
The nectar of Maximilian’s sunflower attracts a number of bees (both short- and long-tongued), butterflies, and moths. The distinctive long, narrow, light-green leaves are food for caterpillars of the silvery checkerspot (Chlosyne nycteis). And the heavy crop of seeds it produces are welcomed by birds.