Sunflower Maximilian

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Maximilian sunflower (Helianthus maximiliani) is a native perennial sunflower that is native to the central and southern United States. It is a tall, stately plant that can grow up to 10 feet tall. The flowers are bright yellow and bloom in the summer. Maximilian sunflower is a popular choice for gardens and wildlife areas. It is a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife. The seeds are also edible and can be roasted and eaten.

Here are some additional facts about Maximilian sunflower:

The plant was named after Prince Maximilian of Wied-Neuwied, a German naturalist who explored the American West in the 1830s.
Maximilian sunflower is a member of the sunflower family (Asteraceae).
The plant is drought-tolerant and can grow in poor soils.
Maximilian sunflower is a larval host for several butterfly species, including the silverspot butterfly.
The seeds can be roasted and eaten, or they can be pressed to make sunflower oil.
If you are looking for a tall, stately, and drought-tolerant perennial sunflower, Maximilian sunflower is a great option. It is a valuable addition to gardens and wildlife areas.

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Sunflower Maximilian
Helianthus maximiliani
Planting Instructions

Here's a comprehensive guide to planting Helianthus maximiliani (Maximilian Sunflower) seeds in the USA, covering both direct sowing and indoor starting:

Site Selection
Sunlight: Maximilian Sunflowers thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.  
Soil: They tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, as long as it's well-draining.  
Space: These sunflowers can grow tall (4-7 feet) and spread, so choose a location where they have ample room.  
Direct Sowing Outdoors

Fall Planting: The ideal time to sow seeds directly outdoors is in late fall. This allows the seeds to naturally overwinter and germinate in the spring.
Preparation: Prepare the seedbed by clearing any existing vegetation and loosening the soil.  
Planting Depth: Sow seeds about 1/8 inch deep.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, until seedlings emerge.  
 
Spring Planting: If planting in spring, wait until after the last frost.
Preparation: Prepare the seedbed as described above.
Planting Depth: Sow seeds about 1 inch deep.
Watering: Water regularly until seedlings are established.  

Starting Seeds Indoors
Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost in your area.
Stratification: Maximilian Sunflower seeds benefit from cold stratification. To do this:
Mix seeds with slightly moistened sand or vermiculite.
Place the mixture in a sealed plastic bag.
Refrigerate for 4-6 weeks.
 
Planting:
Use seed starting mix and plant seeds about 1/8 inch deep in pots or trays.
Keep the soil moist and provide warmth (70-75°F) for germination.  
Transplanting: Once seedlings have a few sets of true leaves and the weather has warmed, transplant them outdoors. Harden them off gradually before transplanting.

Maintenance Tips
Watering: Once established, Maximilian Sunflowers are relatively drought-tolerant. Water during prolonged dry spells.  
Fertilizing: They don't need much fertilizer, but a balanced fertilizer in spring can be beneficial.
Staking: Taller plants may need staking to prevent them from falling over, especially in windy areas.  
Deadheading: If you want to prevent self-seeding, remove spent flower heads before they go to seed.
Invasiveness

Maximilian Sunflowers are native to North America and are not considered invasive in most areas. However, they can spread through their rhizomes (underground stems) and self-seeding. If you want to control their spread, remove seed heads before they mature and divide clumps of plants every few years.  
Additional Notes

Scarification: Scarification (scratching or nicking the seed coat) is not usually necessary for Maximilian Sunflowers.
Pollinators: These sunflowers are excellent for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden.  
Deer Resistance: Maximilian Sunflowers are relatively deer-resistant.

Helianthus maximiliani
Sunflower Maximilian

Native Plant Map

Dark Green indicates the plant is native within the state, yellow rare, the lime green indicates where the plant is native and seen more within a state.

Map Credits BONAP©2024

Testimonials

★★★★★

I love Native Sunflowers in my home garden and landscape.

Mary Hoggins
Tyler, Texas
★★★★★

Last year in the Fall, I collected a lot of seeds I planted this year.

Roger Holmes
Dallas, Texas
★★★★★

They really added a big splash of color to the front of my house garden bed. Love them!

Audrey Long
Mobile, Alabama

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