Helianthus aka Sunflower

Helianthus is a genus of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family, commonly known as sunflowers. With around 70 species, most of which are native to North America and Central America, Helianthus is well-known for its iconic species, the common sunflower (Helianthus annuus). This annual plant, along with Jerusalem artichoke (H. tuberosus), is cultivated as a food crop for humans, cattle, and poultry, as well as for ornamental purposes. The common sunflower typically grows during the summer and early fall, reaching its peak growth in mid-summer. While some perennial Helianthus species are grown in gardens, they have a tendency to spread rapidly and become aggressive. However, the whorled sunflower (Helianthus verticillatus) is listed as an endangered species due to threats from industrial forestry and pine plantations in certain regions. This species can be found in woodlands, near creeks, and in moist, prairie-like areas, reaching a height of 1.8 meters (6 feet). Interestingly, the common sunflower is the national flower of Ukraine, where it has been cultivated for centuries. Another notable variety is the 'Double Whammy,' a clump-forming perennial with green ovate leaves and double golden-yellow flowers that are approximately 15cm across. These flowers bloom from summer to autumn and consist of a ring of elliptic ray florets surrounding a central mound of tubular disc florets. Lastly, the sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is an herbaceous annual plant with a thick, hairy, and erect stem that produces large flower heads.