Sunflower (Maximilian) (Helianthus maximiliani)

Maximilian Sunflower is a warm season native perennial forb. It usually has several stems, gray green in color, that grow upright to a height of 3 to 9 feet. Yellow blooms of 2 to 3 inches occur in great abundance during late summer and fall. Maximilian is adapted to many soil types, from sands to clay, growing best in heavy sunshine with internal drainage. 

Excessive long term wetness or salinity prohibits a good stand. Maximilian performs best when annual rainfall is 18 inches or more. Insects and disease do not seem to be a problem. Maximilian is useful for wildlife food and cover. Birds use the seed for food as well as the plants for cover. Deer and livestock readily eat the forage, especially sheep and goats. Maximilian is often used for filter strips, hedges or screens. 

Seed should be planted 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in the spring, at a rate of 3 pure live seed pounds per acre. Plants will often flower the first year. Once established, Maximilian Sunflower requires little maintenance. The most common varieties are "Aztec" and "Prairie Gold".