Maximilian Sunflower

You may have noticed bright yellow Sunflower plants that are at least 3 feet tall blooming in the ditches by the side of the road. Maximilian Sunflowers (Helianthus maximiliana) differ from the sunflowers that bloom starting in the spring, in that its peak blooming time is the fall. They also differ in being perennials, whereas Common sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are annuals.

Maximilian Sunflowers are found in the ditches because they need some moisture to survive. They are also eaten by deer, so by the roadside helps to keep them from being eaten. I have tried growing them in my backyard, but have not been successful so far and I think it is because I was not willing to water it. I have a friend who waters his more faithfully and this year they grew over 12 feet tall and are covered with flowers. I may try planting another one near my roses where I will remember to water it periodically.

Another native fall bloomer that is currently putting on a show is the blue/purple Fall Aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium). This perennial plant can get huge, especially when grown in partial shade. It is about two feet tall and will keep spreading outward up to 12 feet. In the early spring you can divide the plant or take rosettes at the base of the plant to easily start a new plant. They say it is somewhat deer resistant, but I have not found that it grows out into the deer area when placed near an open fence. I rarely water it and never need to fertilize or use pesticides to keep it healthy. A true native beauty.

Written by Jackie Mattice Hays County Master Naturalist