Showy Sunflower, Cheerful sunflower

Helianthus laetiflorus

Physical Characteristics

Helianthus laetiflorus is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from August to October, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Central N. America - Pennsylvania to Minnesota.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Tubers - raw or cooked[55, 105, K]. Used like Jerusalem artichokes, to which they are not much inferior in taste though yields are lower[95, 183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known