Maximillian sunflower
Helianthus maximilianii
Family: Asteraceae
What it is like
A plant which keeps growing from year to year. It grows 2-3 m tall and spreads 60-90 cm wide. The leaves are blue green and sword shaped. They are 20 cm long near the bottom and have shallow teeth. The leaves are about 5 cm long near the top. The flower heads are yellow and 10 cm wide.
Almost all Helianthus (60 species) in N and S America are edible.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows best in rich, loamy soil. It suits hardiness zones 4-9.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Canada, North America, USA
How it is used for food
The tubers are eaten raw or cooked. They can be roasted or boiled.
Edible parts
Root, seeds