Helianthus maximiliani aka Maximilian Sunflower

Taxonomy

Helianthus maximiliani, also known as Maximilian sunflower, is a North American species that was named after Prince Maximilian of Wied-Neuwied, who discovered it during his travels in North America. This sunflower is native to the Great Plains in central North America but has also naturalized in the eastern and western parts of the continent. It can now be found from British Columbia to Maine, south to the Carolinas, Chihuahua, and California. Thriving in various ecosystems, especially across the plains in central Canada and the United States, Helianthus maximiliani is both a wildflower and an ornamental plant. It is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial with green hairy stems, long lance-shaped leaves, and fragrant yellow "daisy" flowers that bloom along the entire length of each stem. In addition, Maximilian Sunflower can also be grown as a houseplant, requiring regular watering and direct light within one foot of a window. It prefers well-draining soil and does not typically require additional fertilizers if repotted when it doubles in size. Overall, Maximilian Sunflower belongs to the Helianthus genus and is native to the midcontinental prairie regions of North America.

Common names

Maximilian Sunflower, Maximilian's Sunflower, Narrow Leaved Sunflower

How to care for Maximilian Sunflower

Difficulty

Maximilian Sunflower is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Maximilian Sunflower should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Maximilian Sunflower loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Maximilian Sunflower requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Maximilian Sunflower will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Humidity

The Maximilian Sunflower does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.

Fertilizer

The Maximilian Sunflower should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

The Maximilian Sunflower is a clumping species, with new growth arising from the soil surrounding the parent plant.

Region of origin

Maximilian Sunflower’s native range is the Americas.


More info:
Wikipedia