Plant Notes

PLANT OF THE MONTH:	September 2007
Helianthus maximiliani
Maximilian Sunflower Brought by Liz Calhoon in Los Altos Hills. A perennial, prairie sunflower that blooms in late summer, its large, 4 inch flowers have bright yellow rays and dark golden disks and bloom in long clusters. The plant has long, narrow leaves and white hairy stems. Naturally found on rocky slopes and dry praries in full sun. It will accept regular water or xeric conditions. Given garden care it will be spectacular and grow to hugh proportions. Liz's plant has grown to about 10 foot tall. Like its relatives, it is a great food source for birds and butterflies. Liz had lots of seeds to share. It is described as deer resistant. This plant is named for Prince Maximilian van Wied-Neu (1782-1867). He discovered this plant during his many exporations in North and South America.	Helianthus maximilianii       Maximilian Sunflower       Photograph by Patricia ( Niki) Muller