The Maximilian sunflower, ( Helianthus maximilianii), is probably not native to Michigan, it is a wildflower of the north-central prairies that has been introduced into cultivation and then escaped and naturalized in our state. Its cheerful small sunflower blooms may be seen along roadside ditches and in sunny meadows in September and October.
Maximilian sunflowers are perennial plants, slowly forming clusters of plants in a good environment. They are a favorite of birds, producing many tiny, tasty seeds, and their late season color makes them attractive in an informal garden setting. Maximilian sunflowers will cross with our common annual sunflower and experiments are being done to develop a perennial crop sunflower with larger seeds.
Maximilian sunflowers grow extremely tall when they have moisture and full sun, easily reaching 6-7 feet. They have a tendency to fall over when blooms begin unless propped by tall grasses or weeds around them. Unlike common sunflowers, the leaves of Maximilian sunflowers are long and grass-like, folding slightly in the middle and arching downward. They are dark green to gray green. The sturdy stems of the plant have small white hairs along them.
The blooms of Maximilian sunflower are clustered at the ends of the plant and resemble small sunflowers. Both the outer petals and center are bright yellow. It blooms for a long period, beginning in mid- September and continuing to a hard freeze. The flowers produce small seeds that look like the typical sunflower seed that are relished by birds. Birds are responsible for spreading the seeds to new locations. Animals will eagerly graze the plants also.
It is said that Native Americans of the plains ate both the seeds and roots of Maximilian sunflowers. If introduced to gardens for the birds or late season color the plants can be cut back to half their length in early July and the plants will be shorter and less likely to sprawl when blooming.
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