Maximilian Sunflower Seeds Helianthus annuus 25 Seeds
This native sunflower stands tall, is quite eye-catching, and dependable, which makes it a popular choice for many tallgrass prairie restoration efforts. Plus, it draws in a lot of pollinators and songbirds, making it perfect for those who enjoy having feathered friends around.
Sunflowers got their name because they tend to turn their heads towards the sun. In their early stages, they show heliotropism, meaning they follow the sun as it moves from east to west, but once they mature, they typically end up facing directly east. These flowers are often referred to as the happiest blooms, and in the language of flowers, they represent loyalty and steadfastness. The scientific name Helianthus maximiliani pays tribute to German Prince Alexander Maximilian of Wied-Nuewied, a well-known explorer and naturalist who traveled to the western parts of America in the 1830s.
Common Names: Prairie Sunflower
Latin Name: Helianthus maximiliani
Species Origin: Native Wildflower from the US
Type: Native Wildflowers
Life Cycle: Perennial
USDA Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northern, Northeast, Southeast
Seeds per Ounce: 11,500
Stratification: Cold/Wet for 4 Weeks
Germination Ease: Stratify for 4 Weeks
Sunlight: Full Sun, Part Sun
Height: 72 Inches
Color: Yellow
Bloom Season: Late Summer and Early Fall
Uses: Great for Cut Flowers, Deer Resistant
Sowing: Plant Maximilian's sunflower seeds directly in late fall, burying them about 1/2" deep. If you're planting in spring, combine the seeds with some moist sand and keep them in the fridge for 30 days before sowing them directly. For indoor planting, use a flat or individual peat pots, ensuring the soil stays lightly moist and the temperature is around 65-70 degrees F until they germinate, which typically takes 10-20 days. Keep those seedlings moist! Once the weather warms up and the seedlings are strong, you can transplant them outside. This plant does well in clay, rocky, or shallow soil.
Growing: This plant can handle drought, but it really thrives with regular watering. It spreads through rhizomes and can be quite aggressive, especially in rich or moist soil. To encourage longer blooming, deadhead the flowers. If the plants are in partial shade or moist soil, they might grow taller than usual and could need some staking or support. Plus, this plant is a magnet for bees and butterflies.
Harvesting: For fresh flowers, cut long stems of flowers that have just opened and put them in water right away; make sure to remove any leaves that will be submerged.
Seed Saving: Once the petals fall off, the centers of the flowers will darken and form tight clusters of seeds. Pick the seeds as soon as they are ripe, since small birds love to snack on them. Cut the heads off and let them dry for a few days. Then, thresh the dried heads to separate the seeds from the chaff. Store the cleaned Maximilian's sunflower seeds in a cool, dry spot.
