A tall, almost stately presence in the late summer and fall garden or wild space. The Maximilian Sunflower, Helianthus maximiliani, stands proudly, often reaching heights of 5 to 10 feet, sometimes even more in ideal conditions. Its stems are sturdy and upright, usually branching towards the top, creating a multi-headed display of sunny yellow.

The leaves are quite distinctive. They are long and lance-shaped, typically ranging from 4 to 10 inches in length and about an inch or two wide. What sets them apart is their alternate arrangement along the stem and their rough, hairy texture. They often have a slightly grayish-green hue, adding a subtle contrast to the vibrant flowers. Unlike some other sunflowers, the lower leaves tend to persist on the stem rather than withering away early in the season, contributing to the plant's overall lush appearance.

And then, of course, there are the flowers! Blooming from late summer into fall (August to October in Calgary), each stem culminates in a profusion of bright yellow, daisy-like flower heads. These aren't the massive single discs of the annual sunflowers we often see. Instead, they are typically 2 to 4 inches in diameter, with numerous golden-yellow ray florets (the “petals”) surrounding a central disc of brownish-yellow disc florets that eventually mature into seeds. The sheer number of these blooms on a mature plant can create a breathtaking display of late-season sunshine.

Beyond its visual appeal, the Maximilian Sunflower is a workhorse of the prairie ecosystem. It's a perennial, meaning it comes back year after year, spreading slowly by rhizomes (underground stems) to form colonies over time. This makes it a reliable and long-lasting addition to a landscape.

This sunflower is also incredibly resilient and adaptable. Native to the prairies of North America, it's well-suited to a variety of conditions, including the sometimes challenging climate of Calgary. It thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate drier conditions once established. Its deep root system helps it withstand drought and contributes to its hardiness.

Furthermore, the Maximilian Sunflower is a valuable plant for wildlife. Its late-season blooms provide a crucial nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators when many other flowers have faded. The seeds are a favourite food source for birds in the fall and winter. Its tall stature also provides cover for small animals.

In a garden setting, the Maximilian Sunflower adds height, texture, and vibrant late-season colour. It's a fantastic choice for the back of borders, naturalized areas, or wildflower gardens. While its height might make it unsuitable for small spaces, its beauty and ecological benefits make it a truly remarkable native plant. It embodies the spirit of the prairie – strong, resilient, and full of sunshine.

Distributions
prairie; parkland

Light
full-sun

Bloom Period
summer

Height
90 – 300 cm
35 – 120 INCH

Habitat
Meadows, fields, disturbed areas