Maximilian Sunflower Plant | Helianthus Maximiliani

The Maximilian Sunflower (Helianthus maximiliani) is an extremely tall and luscious flower in the Aster family. This plant is native to the great plains of North America. Now naturalized across the USA, it is a common species found in prairie environments from the east to the west.

Given their tall stature, these flowers will have you looking skyward, framing their vibrant yellow flowers and green leaves against a bright blue horizon; a scene inspiring serenity and peace.

The flowers themselves have showy, bright yellow petals with dark brown to green centers and expand 5 in in diameter. The stems support multiple beautiful blooms along the length of the top third of the stem. After flowering, the plant recedes to only its rhizome until the following year.

Maximilian Sunflower Plant Details | Helianthus maximiliani Overview

Family: Asteraceae

Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9

Light Requirement: Full sun

Water Needs: Low to moderate

Height: 3 to 10 ft

Spread: 2 to 4 ft

Growth Rate: Moderate

Bloom Time: August to September

Flower Color: Bright yellow with brown central disk

Wildlife Value: Attractive to pollinators

The Maximilian Sunflower is a vigorous plant and can form large colonies. It is ideal to be planted in a large pollinator garden, making sure that it has room to spread. Interesting, the rhizome of the plant is edible and is similar to Jerusalem artichoke in taste and texture; its vigorous growth ensures a hardy crop of its flavorful rhizomes.

Additionally, these prolific flowers develop significant seed stocks, which make them attractive for wildlife. It is common to see little birds collecting seeds from the pollinated flowers of this productive herbaceous plant.

How to Grow Maximilian Sunflowers | Drought-Tolerant and Hardy

These robust plants tolerate a wide range of soil types and grow best when planted in full sun in dry - medium, well-drained soil. That said, they are tolerant to drought. They are vigorous growers and are most suitable in areas that give them room to spread.

These plants are disease resistance and not at risk to herbivory. However, they do require staking if planted in a wind prone area. Plant them next to a fence to reduce wind loading and provide a little extra privacy in the spring and summer months.

Why Choose the Maximilian Sunflower for Pollinators and Wildlife

Produces food for wildlife, rhizome is edible, prolific flowering.

These robust, vigorous, and prolific sunflowers produce not only beautiful blooms and vibrant green stems but also a food source for wildlife and humans alike. Shop for the Maximillian Sunflower online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Fall

Bloom/Foliage Color

Yellow

Height at Maturity

Over 12"

Care

Maximilian Sunflowers thrive in well-drained soil and require regular watering, especially during dry periods. They grow tall, so provide support if needed. Trim dead flowers to encourage continuous blooming and control height. They are generally pest and disease-resistant.

Plant Reproduction

Maximilian Sunflower primarily spread by rhizomes after establishment.

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs

Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.

For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.

Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.

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