Maximilian Sunflower
This spring I found a plant growing at the edge of my garden and I decided to leave it to see what it was. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that it was a Maximilian Sunflower when it started blooming a couple weeks ago. This native perennial was named after Prince Maximilian of Germany who was a naturalist that lead an expedition to the west from 1832 to 1834. This sunflower is a desirable range plant that is commonly eaten by livestock. It also produces a heavy crop of seeds making it a valuable source for wildlife (likely how this plant ended up in my garden). The Maximilian sunflower typically ranges in height from 3-10 feet tall. The leaves are long and narrow ranging in length from 2 to 10 inches. The flower heads are up to 5 inches across and there are often multiple on a plant. This perennial does form large colonies in its native range. In Kansas it can commonly be found in dry open areas such as prairies, bald knobs, limestone glades, roadsides and waste areas. While not commonly used in landscaping this plant works well for sunny borders, wild or native plant gardens, cottage gardens, naturalized areas and meadows or prairies. It tolerates a wide range of soils including poor sandy soils, clay soils and is very tolerant of drought and dry soils. I think I’ll transplant this one to a slightly different location and enjoy its beautiful blooms near my garden for years to come.
