Wild Sunflower

Helianthus lenticularis

Physical Characteristics

Helianthus lenticularis is a ANNUAL growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). 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

N. America - Minnesota to North Dakota, Idaho, Missouri, Texas and California.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Oil Seed Edible Uses: Coffee Oil Seed - raw or cooked[172]. The seed can be dried and ground into a powder then used with cereal flowers in making breads, cakes and rich soups[183]. An edible oil is obtained from the seed[183]. The roasted shells, after the starch has been removed, or the roasted seeds, can be used in preparing a coffee-like beverage[183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known