Helianthus annuus (sunflower) | Plants & Fungi At Kew Discover more Geography and distribution Sunflower was first domesticated from its wild ancestor more than 5,000 years ago in the south-western part of the USA and, within a short period of time, became widespread throughout the Americas. Its value as an ornamental plant and use as a source of food and oil attracted the attention of European explorers who brought the crop to Europe in the 16th century. By the 19th century sunflower was being cultivated on a wide scale in Russia, the Ukraine and Caucasus regions for the manufacture of edible vegetable oil. The crop is still important in that part of the world today along with the US and Argentina. Other key producers are India, China, Turkey, the European Union (eg France, Spain) and South Africa. Occasionally, sunflower escapes cultivation and becomes naturalized. Habitat Cultivated in relatively cool temperate to warm subtropical climates. Sunflowers can also be grown in the drier tropical regions but are unsuitable for humid environments. They can grow in a wide range of soils from sandy to clayey provided they are deep, free-draining and not acidic.

Description Overview: Helianthus annuus is an annual herb which grows up to 5 metres tall with a well-developed taproot extending up to 3 metres into the soil. The stem is erect with a slight-to-severe curve below the flower head in mature plants. In many wild types it is branched whereas in cultivated varieties the stem is unbranched. Leaves: The leaves are positioned opposite each other in the lower part of the plant and higher up the stem they are arranged spirally. Each leaf is hairy, 10–30 × 5–20 cm with toothed margins, and is supported by a long petiole. Flowers: The inflorescence is a terminal head (capitulum), 10-50 cm in diameter and is surrounded by three rows of bracts (phyllaries). The flower head is comprised of outer yellow ray florets, which serve to attract pollinators, and inner brownish disc florets which are fertile. The inner florets are numerous and are arranged in spiral whorls from the centre of the head.

Each floret is about 2 cm long and consists of a 5-lobed, brown or purplish corolla tube and two deciduous bristly scales (pappus), 5 stamens united into a tube and an ovary which is positioned below the flower tube and stamens. The stigma has two curved lobes and there are nectaries at the base of the style. Fruit: The fruit (known botanically as an achene) is up to 15-25 mm in size and can be white, brown, black or striped. Uses Sunflower is mainly cultivated for its tasty seeds and versatile oil and to a lesser extent for ornamental purposes. The seeds yield edible oil, which is excellent quality due to a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids, near absence of toxic substances, light colour and good flavour. The oil is used for salads, cooking and as an ingredient in the manufacture of margarine. The oil also has some industrial uses as drying oils for paints and varnishes and in the manufacture of soaps and cosmetics as well as a biofuel.

Wild sunflower growing by the roadside (Photo: Matt Lavin) The by-product of sunflower oil extraction is a high protein meal, which is commonly blended with soyabean meal and used as livestock feed. Sunflower meal is sometimes used as a substitute for wheat flour in the baking of bread and cakes for human consumption. The indigenous people of North America have a long tradition of using ground sunflower seeds to make bread-like products. The varieties cultivated for their seeds are much larger than the oil-cultivars and are often black and white striped, are can be eaten directly. In countries like Russia, the sunflower seeds are salted and roasted whole and enjoyed as a delicious savoury snack. The smaller seeds are widely used in birdseed and in pet food. Some people air-dry the fruiting capitula and hang them upside down or simply leave the fruiting capitula on the plants for bird feed. Sunflower is sometimes cultivated as a forage crop. Crop wild relatives of sunflower The Millennium Seed Bank and the Global Crop Diversity Trust are engaged in a ten-year project, called 'Adapting Agriculture to Climate Change'.

The project aims to protect, collect and prepare the wild relatives of 29 key food crops, including sunflower, so that they are available to pre-breeders for the development of new varieties that are more resilient to the effects of climate change. Millennium Seed Bank: Seed storage The Millennium Seed Bank Partnership aims to save plants worldwide, focusing on those plants which are under threat and those which are of most use in the future. Once seeds have been collected they are dried, packaged and stored at -20°C in our seed bank vault. Description of seeds: Average 1,000 seed weight = 42 g Number of seed collections stored in the Millennium Seed Bank: One Seed storage behaviour: Orthodox. (The seeds of this plant can be dried to low moisture contents without significantly reducing their viability. This means they are suitable for long-term frozen storage such as at the MSB) Germination testing: Successful Helianthus annuus is one of the species included in the ‘Difficult Seeds' project because many of its seeds are short-lived and may not survive a long time in storage.

This species at Kew Pressed and dried specimens of sunflower are held in Kew's Herbarium, where they are available to researchers by appointment. Details and images of some of these specimens can be seen online in Kew's Herbarium Catalogue. References and credits Beentje, H. (2010). The Kew Plant Glossary: an Illustrated Dictionary of Plant Terms. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Mabberley, D.J. (2008). Mabberley’s Plant-book: a Portable Dictionary of Plants, their Classification and Uses. Third edition. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. Polikarpov, G.G. (1978). Sunflower’s blooming floscule is a compass. Nature 272: 122 Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (2008). Seed Information Database (SID). Version 7.1.

Available online (accessed 28 August 2013) Kew science editor: Nicholas Hind Kew contributor: Sarah Cody Although every effort has been taken to ensure that the information contained in these pages is reliable and complete, notes on hazards, edibility and suchlike included here are recorded information and do not constitute recommendations. No responsibility will be taken for readers’ own actions. * Sunflower (Plants) - Definition,meaning - Online Encyclopedia Family name : Aster aceae/Compositae ... SUNFLOWERS Sunflowers are classic, heartwarming flowers that so many gardeners love to grow every year. Besides adding cheer to the garden, they are wonderful cut flowers, attract beneficial insects and can provide temporary privacy. Sunflowers Modern sunflowers are much more than one huge yellow flower on a tall stalk. Many new varieties have been developed. Flowers range from two-colored or banded, to chestnut red or pale yellow. Sunflowers ( Helianthus annuus ) Winning qualities: They're the 'essence of summer,' as Kolla says, and they're especially easy to grow. ---Sunflower Plants as Green Food---With Sun flowers there need be little waste.

The green leaves, when gathered young, make a good succulent green food for poultry stock of all ages. Buy Sunflower Seed for Planting Buy Raised Garden Beds Attractive, long lasting and affordable. Buy Flower, Vegetable and Herb Seeds Hundreds of varieties of top quality, low cost seeds. Annual Sunflower Varying widely in size and chara cter, these tough, sun-tolerant plants need lots of space. They have big, bold flowers and can spread rapidly. They include important seed oil and food crops such as the Common Sunflower and Jerusalem Artichoke , plus several ornamental perennials. Balsam orhiza sagittata. Arrowleaf Balsam Root. Helianthus decapetalus Perennial sunflower USA; 1,5m Planting position: Full sun or semi-shade.Suitable for all growing regions, provided adequate watering. Ideal for planting near water, in woodland conditions with wind-protection. Requires regular watering.Compost-enriched, well-draining soil. Important Info : Choose a site with full sun if possible. Sunflowers do well in most soils. Good for bird food or human consumption. Known to attract Goldfinches and butterflies.

How to Grow this Plant: Where can you buy this plant: click here! ... Sunflower A free-flowering plant to brighten up the late summer garden. Covered in intense light yellow single 2-3" flowers from July to September. An irresistible butterfly plant. [ More Info ] ... Sunflowers ( Helianthus annuus , H. debilis hybrids ) Vase life: up to 7 days. "Sunflowers are tough as nails. Anyone can grow them," says Steve Jones, flower seed manager at Bodger Seeds in southern California. Daylength-neutral 'Sunbeam' blooms in 60 days, no matter where sown. Sunflower Pepper s,[66][67] corn , cucumber ,[22] soybean s,[50] tomato es, swan plant ... Sunflower (Hellanthus sp). With large, cheerful, yellow, flat flowers on a hairy stem 3-15 feet high. Common in many Bermuda gardens as H. annuus. Native of USA and New World. Swan River Daisy ( Brachycome iberidifolia). An annual from Australia, growing more than 12 inches tall.

The Sunflower family of plants is regarded as mostly herbaceous to us northern hemisphere gardeners. Well, guess what? It is a gigantic and widespread family; many members are woody, and some are even trees. GIANT SUNFLOWER - Helianthus giganteus Editor's Mailbag. 1980 #2, pp 4-6 Gibberellic Acid and the Mangosteen . By Alois Falkenstein, M.D.. 1989, #3 p 7 Gibberellic Acid - Fruit Set and Fruit Germination. By John M. Riley. 1987 J, pp 10-12 Questions & Answers. 1985 #4, p 27 ... Canyon Sunflower - Shrub 3-5' tall & wide w/bright green lvs & yellow daisy flwrs late winter to summer Coastal sun/bright shade. Litte to occasional H2O. Hardy to 20F. Verbascum bombyciferum 'Arctic Summer' ... 30 (50)cm, Dwarf Sunflower is a (as the names proposes) a dwarf perennial member in this genus.

It makes lanceolate, dark green , hairy leaves and short stems crowned with several showy, bright yellow flowers. It is native of rocky, sunny sites in Midwestern USA. sunflower A wonderful Native American perennial sunflower growing 8 - 10 ft. tall. Late summer into fall brings soft pastel yellow 2 inch flowers to the branch tips of this towering plant. An easy to grow perennial for sunny areas with moderate water. Sunflower relative, native to mountainous areas in southern and southeastern Europe. Large daisy -like flowers, whose rays and centers are both yellow, appear in late summer. The bold triangular leaves are reportedly aromatic, but I can't say that I've noticed. Sunflowers are colorful giants and are one of the first flowers many children will recognize. A sunflower-growing competition appeals to any age of gardener. Planting Bulbs in Pots How to Plant Bulbs in a Border ... sunflower The tulip is a cup-shaped flower. Sunflower Reported to be self-fertile; large fruit with yellow skin & fruit; few seeds; ripens mid - late Sept. Susquehanna™ ... A sunflower-like perennial, needing the same culture as helianthus , although it is shorter growing.

The strong, erect stems grow to about 3 ft or so, having one central bloom and a number of laterals. They last well in water, in which they should be placed immediately they are cut. This "sunflower" does not have flower petals. It is one of 20 sunflowers in Florida. Rayless sunflower is frequent in wet flatwoods in the northern counties south to the central peninsula, of Florida and Collier county. It blooms in the summer (Wunderlin, 2003). Woodland Sunflower Helianthus divaricatus L. This is a very common sunflower in partly shady places. Japanese sunflower ( Tithonia diversifolia) has leaves with 3-7 pointed lobes. Its flower-heads have bright yellow centres and yellow 'petals (i.e. ray florets) 4-7 cm long. Mexican sunflower ( Tithonia rotundifolia) has leaves without lobes or with rounded lobes. Heliconia angusta (Christmas Heliconia , Family: Heliconia ceae) ... Like Lotus , Rose ,Merigold, Sunflower, Jasmin Its only five name I required minimum ten names pls help me .

I search on net but the list shows a lot of name but that flowers not around us. so pls help me. Thanks & Regrds Renu 9827781622 Renu ... Inula helenium , commonly called elecampane , is a rhizomatous, sunflower-like composite of the aster family that is native to Europe and northern Asia, but has naturalized in fields, clearings, disturbed sites, ... Pollination in Helianthus (sunflowers) has been particularly well studied, and several species of oligolectic bees may visit the one species of sunflower. It is a perennial of the sunflower family ( Aster aceae) and grows from a woody crown. Upright stems branch near the middle, with leaves up to6 inches long by more than an inch wide. The lower leaves are lobed or toothed; middle and upper leaves are linear. As with all members of the sunflower family, the flowers are really inflorescences known as "heads" and composed of numerous flowers. The most dominant colors are the result of the orange to reddish petals on the showy ray florets, which are tipped in yellow.

It's a member of the sunflower family and its flowers resembles the sunflower, only in miniature form.The flower is disk shaped, on long bare stems, rising several inches above the mound of white leaves, giving an impression of a layer of color over the plant.. Sunflowers - Growing a Banner of Summer, the Sunflower My Flowers Have Garden Caterpillars, Now What? Get Rid of Fuzzy Grey Mold on Flowers Prevent and Control Rust Fungus in the Flower Garden Dry Shade Plants - Annual Flowers for Dry Shade Areas ... The same effect is seen on a pine cone, on magnolia fruit, and in a sunflower. Mathematically inclined readers might like to speculate on how this widespread phenomenon arises. Vegetable oils such as olive oil, sunflower, rapeseed oils or canola oils replace animal fats in the Mediterranean kitchen. Oil olive is the " king of fats" in this kind of diet. Very rich in monounsaturated fatty acids especially valid for lower levels of " bad" cholesterol and raise "good" cholesterol. This hardy biennial member of the sunflower family is to be grown for something different and is not usually seen on the supermarket shelf.

It is also known as the ‘vegetable oyster’ because of its similarity of flavour. Family Aster aceae, the Sunflowers Genus Anaphalis, the Pearly Everlasting s Taxonomic Serial Number: 36529 Also known as Anaphalis occidentalis, Gnaphalium margaritaceum ... To make the macerated oil, pour half a litre of sunflower or almond oil onto 120g of flowers in a glass jar, then place in direct sunlight for about six weeks or longer until the liquid has turned bright red. Strain through muslin and decant off from any watery layer. Compiled by the Master Gardeners of the University of Arizona Pima County Cooperative Extension. A beauty to admire but painful to touch: handle with care. These sunflower-like daisies often make very attractive displays, but the thorns on the leaves, stems and bracts hamper its potential as a cut-flower. Buy now Helianthus ' Lemon Queen' (Sunflower ' Lemon Queen') Buy now Helichrysum italicum (Curry plant) ... Florist Chrysanthemum has big, beautiful flowers crowning a mass of dark- green foliage.

This is a member of the Aster aceae family, along with daisies, sunflowers and marigold s. Most florist mums have daisy -type flowers, but other chrysanthemum varieties such as anemone , pompon, and spider are available. Use drainpipe that has been drilled with holes at intervals by burying it in the middle and creating a type of air shaft for the pile. Sunflower stalks and straw can be buried as well with their ends protruding as they will allow air to be drawn into the heap through their shafts. Dent corn has mostly white to yellow grains. This and Flint corn are widely grown for oils, cornflour, cereals and silage crops. Corn grows well with early potato es, legume s, dill , cucurbits and sunflowers[18, 20, 201], it dislikes growing with tomato es[20]. What To Do With Sunflower Plant After Harvest Phlox Does Not Bloom In One Area Of Yard Pin Oak Trees Covered In Spider Webs Should Arborvitae Be Topped And When To Prune Virginia Creeper Vine Has Insect That Is Sucking All Green Out Of The Leaves ...

Helianthus annuus Linnaeus Helianthus annuus Linnaeus Remark The words or terms in red (actually dark orange) in the text are defined in a glossary . Helianthus annuus is widely distributed plant, including weedy, cultivated, and escaped plants. It is one of the American species to become a major agronomic crop. Helianthus annuus are branching and bushy coarse taprooted annuals that are from one to three meters high. They hybridizes with many of the other annual species. Their stems are erect, usually hispid. The wild version of Helianthus annuus is different from the cultivated versions raised as a seed crop and an ornamental. It is not the single stalk with a flower the size of a dinner plate at the top, so commonly depicted. The wild version has considerable branching and a smaller, looser seed head designed to shatter and disperse seed over a wide area. The plant is of major archaeological significance, it was of the first cultivated plants, grown for its oily seeds. The chromosome number (2n) of Helianthus annuus is 34, It belongs to the Asteraceae family.

Name means flower, and ηλιοσ (�lios) is the sun. The genus scientific name refers to the flower heads that are somewhat sunlike when blooming or because the flower heads somewhat follow the sun by day, always turning towards its direct rays (heliotropism) hence the French common name Tournesol, although Helianthus flower heads do not follow the sun across the sky any more than other plants. And the genus common English name is just a translation of the scientific name or vice-versa. In Latin, annuus is an adjective that means annual, lasting one year, coming back every year. Although the epithet applies to Helianthus annuus, this is not the only species of the Helianthus genus that is an annual. Common names Helianthus annuus is commonly known as Sunflower, Common Sunflower, Wild Sunflower and less commonly as American Mary-gold, Garden Sunflower. It common French vernacular name is Tournesol; it is also called Grand soleil. Synonyms Helianthus annuus has also been known as: Helianthus annuus L. subsp.

jaegeri (Heiser) Heiser Helianthus annuus L. subsp. lenticularis (Douglas ex Lindl.) Cockerell Helianthus annuus L. subsp. texanus Heiser Helianthus annuus L. var. annuus Helianthus annuus L. var. lenticularis (Douglas ex Lindl.) Steyerm. Helianthus annuus L. var. macrocarpus (DC.) Cockerell Helianthus annuus L. var. texanus (Heiser) Shinners Helianthus aridus Rydb. Helianthus lenticularis Douglas ex Lindl. Identification Helianthus annuus is simple to recognize with its golden yellow ray florets radiating from a central brown pad of very numerous disk florets, with its often branched stem with several flower heads and with toothed, heart-shaped alternate leaves. The plant can be from 3 to 12 feet tall. It resembles many other plants of the Asteraceae family, the coneflower, the ox-eye daisy, etc., but it is not difficult to differentiate it from these other species.

Description Helianthus annuus grows from a fibrous root; its stem is erect, simple or branched above, rough stiff-hairy, and from 0.4 to 2 m tall. Leaves With a small pappus soon falling off. Habitat Helianthus annuus is the resident of roadsides, dry fields, disturbed sites, waste land. It prefers open and dry to moderately moist soil. It does not tolerate heavy shade or acidic or waterlogged soil. Distribution Although native to America Helianthus annuus is now distributed almost worldwide in temperate regions. Its range throughout North America is from about 55 degrees north latitude to northern Mexico. The map shows the Canadian provinces and the Territory as well as the USA states where the plant can be found. Notes Wild Helianthus annuus is highly branched with small heads and small seeds, in contrast to the single-stem and large seed head of domesticated Helianthus annuus. It can be weedy and invasive. Helianthus annuus were cultivated for food by native American peoples long before the arrival of European settlers. It was domesticated around 1000 B.C.

It was imported in Europe in 1510 as decorative plant, and only later cultivated for the seeds. Helianthus annuus is the Kansas State flower, it is the floral emblem of Peru, it is the national flower of Russia. Helianthus annuus is valuable from an economic, as well as from an ornamental point of view. Every part of the plant may be utilized for some economic purpose. The leaves form a cattle-food and the stems contain a fibre which may be used successfully in making paper. The seed is rich in oil, which is said to approach more nearly to olive oil than any other vegetable oil known and to be largely used as a substitute. Helianthus annuus oil is generally considered a premium oil because of its light color, high level of unsaturated fatty acids and lack of linolenic linolenic, bland flavor and high smoke point. The plant was widely used by many Indian tribes of North America. The Apache used a poultice of crushed plants and applied it to snakebites. The Dakota used an infusion of the flowers for chest pains and for pulmonary troubles.

The Gros Ventre used oil from the seeds to lubricate or paint the face or body; they also used dried, powdered seeds mixed into cakes and took them on war party to combat fatigue. The Kiowa chewed the coagulated sap to diminish thirst. The Navajo ate the seeds to give appetite. Etc. Helianthus annuus forms one of the well-known crops in Russia, Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Egypt, India, Manchuria and Japan. The average acre will produce about 50 bushels of merchantable seeds, and each bushel yields approximately 1 gallon of oil, for which there is a whole series of important uses. The seed makes excellent chicken-food and feeding fowls on bruised Helianthus annuus seeds is well known to increase their laying power. The seeds of the large-seeded varieties are also much liked by Russians and are sold on the street. Big bowls of Helianthus annuus seeds are to be seen in the restaurants of railway stations, for people to eat. They can be eaten raw, cooked, roasted, or dried and ground for use in bread or cakes, as a snack. The seeds and the roasted seed shells have been used as a coffee substitute.

Yellow dyes have been made from the flowers, and black dyes from the seeds. Some of the most well known paintings of Vincent Van Gogh are its Sunflowers series, the Paris sunflowers, painted in 1887, 4 paintings of 0ne to three flowers, and the Arles sunflowers, painted in 1888-1889, a few sunflowers in a vase, 7 paintings, all of them in museums but for one, and one that was destroyed by fire in the Second World War. In the 1980's one of them was bought in London for just under $ 40 millions. Gallery The photos of the gallery were taken either with one of the following: Minolta DiMAGE 7, Canon PowerShot A530, Canon Xt Rebel, usually with the EF-S60mm f/2.8 Macro USM objective, Fujifilm A 610 and EPSON Perfection 1650 (scanner). The title in the window shows the date when the picture was taken, i.e. jan_30_06...

would mean that the photo was taken on the 30th of January, the 06 is for the 6th picture taken that day. The month, day and picture number might be followed by a letter which I use to identify the system used to take the picture. Click on the thumbnails to get larger view. The original photos are usually in TIFF format, the photos shown are generally in JPEG format, often of dimensions one half (surface one quarter) for loading time reduction. Plants Helianthus annuus 'Music Box' | Right Plants 4 Me Common Name: Sunflower 'Music Box' Latin Name: Helianthus annuus 'Music Box' Variety: 'Music Box' Family Name: Asteraceae / Compositae Plant Description: Recent years have seen a lot of development breeding of sunflowers in an effort to make them small enough for the average garden and to make them produce more than the one or two very large flowers usually produced by the species.

Helianthus 'Music Box' is a seed strain that produces small plants with branching stems that carry sizeable flowers - 10 to 12 cm across - and with a colour range that encompasses yellow, browns and reds with some flowers being bicoloured. All have the dark centre where the seeds are produced. Sunflowers produce a large amount of nectar attracting bees yielding an excellent honey. They are a cheerful addition to herbaceous or mixed borders and can be grown in containers. Flowers last well when cut. They are widely cultivated economically for their seeds, stems and leaves. Plants can also improve the quality of the soil. Seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, ground into flour or pressed to yield high-quality oil, ideal for many culinary uses or incorporated into soaps and candles. Medicinally the seeds are alleged to have expectorant and diuretic properties. Historically used for decorating temples and priestesses in the 12th century by the sun worshipping Aztecs of Peru, who were renowned for fine architecture and a polytheistic religion involving human sacrifice.

Latin Name Explanation: Sunflower derives its generic name from the sun-like appearance of the flowers and the way they follow the sun during the day ('helios' is Greek for 'sun' and 'anthos' for 'flower'). 'annuus' means 'a year's' or 'annual'. Preferred Aspect: Full Sun Hardiness: Fully Frost Hardy - withstand temperature down to -15C Pest and Diseases If you Subscribe you are able to read about and identify Pests and Diseases that effect your plants. In order to identify "Pest and Diseases" you will be required to Register. It is Free to Register. When you Register you able to test the site Free for 4 days. This will enable you to try out the site and see if it suits your requirements. If you then decide to continue you can Subscribe for only £14.95 pa via PayPal You will be able to subscribe securely using PayPal. If you want plants added that are not on our database please feel free to contact neil@complete-gardens.co.uk In order to keep a record of your plants and to know when and how to prune them you will be required to register. Registering is easy.

Just click on Specific Planting: Sow seeds either in containers early spring and transplant out late spring, or sow in situ in late spring. Container grown plants can be planted in situ late spring or early summer. Dig a hole approximately twice the diameter and depth of the root ball for minimal disturbance. Add plenty of water to the hole. Check the plant and see which side looks best. Remove pot. If the roots look root bound, you can gently prize them apart. Carefully position the plant so it is upright and the top of the root ball is just below the soil surface. Back fill the soil around the roots. Firm the plant in using your heel or hands. This ensures good soil and root contact and prevents your plant being blown over in a wind. Water well to settle the soil around the roots. This again ensures the soil makes good contact with the roots and gives your plant a good start in its new surroundings. Propagation From Seed There are more plants of the same Genus. If you would like to see them all please press 'Show All' button. Helianthus 'Claret' Plants I have. If you subscribe you are able to make a visual and printable list of 'Plants I Have'.

You simply click on 'My Plant List' Add to 'Plants I have' and your plants are listed alphabetically with an image, plus Latin & Common name, Genus, Notes, Action – You can then view the plant info plus Delete plant from list to keep your plants lists up to date. Plants I want. You are able to make a visual printable list of 'Plants I Want' You simply click on 'My Plant List' Add plant to 'Plant I want'. Your plants are listed alphabetically with images, Latin & common name, Genus, Notes, Action – show plant info and delete plant from list OR move to Plants I Have Plants to prune. You can choose any month to see which of your plants need pruning and be advised what to do. Simply click on the plant image to view the illustrated pruning advice. This screen show plants I have that need pruning in February To keep a record of your plant lists and notes there is an annual subscription charge of only £14.95. Payment can be made securely using PayPal. Click here to register with the option to subscribe. List of your plants with Notes. If you Subscribe you are able to add your personal notes to plants.

You simply click "Add Notes" and type in the text box. You can print your notes with an image of the plant. You can view and print the list of your plants with notes. In order to keep a record of your "Notes" you will be required to Register. It is Free to Register. When you Register you able to test the site Free for 4 days. This will enable you to try out the site and see if it suits your requirements. If you then decide to continue you can Subscribe for only £14.95 pa via PayPal Add Notes You can add your personal notes to plants. You can print your notes with an image of the plant. You will be able to subscribe securely using PayPal. If you want plants added that are not on our database please feel free to contact neil@complete-gardens.co.uk Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center - The University of Texas at Austin Asteraceae (Aster Family) Synonym(s): Helianthus annuus ssp. jaegeri, Helianthus annuus ssp. lenticularis, Helianthus annuus ssp. texanus, Helianthus annuus var.

lenticularis, Helianthus annuus var. macrocarpus, Helianthus annuus var. texanus, Helianthus aridus, Helianthus lenticularis USDA Native Status: L48 (N), AK (I), HI (I), PR (I), CAN (I), SPM (I) Common sunflower is a widely branching, stout annual, 1 1/2-8 ft. tall, with coarsely hairy leaves and stems. The terminal flowers heads are large and showy, up to 5 in. across. A tall, coarse leafy plant with a hairy stem commonly branched in the upper half and bearing several or many flower heads, the central maroon disk surrounded by many bright yellow rays. Yellow ray flowers surround brown disk flowers. The state flower of Kansas. Contrary to common myth, the heads of sunflowers do not follow the sun each day. However, developing flower buds and leaves do exhibit some phototropism. The plant has been cultivated in Central North America since pre-Columbian times; yellow dye obtained from the flowers, and a black or dull blue dye from the seeds, were once important in Native American basketry and weaving.

Native Americans also ground the seeds for flour and used its oil for cooking and dressing hair. In the 19th century it was believed that plants growing near a home would protect from malaria. In the United States and Eurasia seeds from cultivated strains are now used for cooking oil and livestock feed. Many variants have been developed, some with one huge head topping a stalk 9-16 ft (3-5 m) tall, others with maroon rays. Prairie Sunflower ( H. petiolaris ), found throughout the Great Plains and similar to the wild forms of Common Sunflower, has scales on the disk in the center of the head tipped by white hairs, easily visible when the central flowers are spread apart. Developed in a single large head variety by Russians. CaCO3 Tolerance: Medium Soil Description: Dry, disturbed clays or heavy sands. Conditions Comments: Common sunflower spreads rapidly by seed, especially in disturbed sites. It has been shown to have an allelopathic effect on other plants. Many subspecies intergrade throught the species range. The cultivated giant sunflower is a member of H. annuus, derived through artificial selection.

Benefit Use Wildlife: Sunflowers intermixed with other annuals provide good cover for many species of wildlife. Seeds are sought by many species of wild birds. Use Food: Sunflower seeds are popular in breads, cereals, salads and many other dishes. Although we usually think of only the seeds as edible, the bright yellow strap-like florets make a colourful salad garnish. (Kershaw) Use Medicinal: Flower heads with bracts removed boiled to make remedy for pulmonary troubles. Poultice of flowers used for burns. (Kindscher) Crushed root applied as a mash to draw blister. (Weiner) Roots chewed and applied to swollen area of rattlesnake bites after venom was sucked out. (Steiner) American Indians used flower tea for lung ailments, malaria. Leaf tea taken for high fevers; astringent poultice on snake bites and spider bites. Seeds and leaves said to be diuretic, expectorant. Use Other: In the 19th century it was believed that plants growing near a home would protect from malaria. (Niering) Recent uses include making silage from the plant and extracting the oil to make soap.

(Niering) Conspicuous Flowers: yes Helianthus annuus | Right Plants 4 Me Family Name: Asteraceae / Compositae Plant Description: Giant, hardy erect annual which provides a bright, dramatic edition to any border. Quick growing with hairy stems that can grow to 5m (15ft) and has a long taproot. Big, hairy, toothed, broadly ovate to heart shaped green leaves. Showy, large daisy-like flower heads composed of bright yellow ray-florets and brown-purplish disc-florets are borne singly in the summer. Flowers produce a large amount of nectar attracting bees yielding an excellent honey. Sunflowers are a cheerful addition to herbaceous or mixed borders and can be grown in containers. Flowers last well when cut. They are widely cultivated economically for their seeds, stems and leaves. Plants can also improve the quality of the soil. Seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, ground into flour or pressed to yield high-quality oil, ideal for many culinary uses or incorporated into soaps and candles. Medicinally the seeds are alleged to have expectorant and diuretic properties.

Historically used for decorating temples and priestesses in the 12th century by the sun worshipping Aztecs of Peru, who were renowned for fine architecture and a polytheistic religion involving human sacrifice. Latin Name Explanation: Sunflower derives its generic name in reference to its sun-like appearance and the way the flowers follow the sun during the day ('helios' is Greek for 'sun' and 'anthos' for 'flower'). 'annuus' means 'a year's' or 'annual'. Preferred Aspect: Full Sun Hardiness: Fully Frost Hardy - withstand temperature down to -15C Pest and Diseases If you Subscribe you are able to read about and identify Pests and Diseases that effect your plants. In order to identify "Pest and Diseases" you will be required to Register. It is Free to Register. When you Register you able to test the site Free for 4 days. This will enable you to try out the site and see if it suits your requirements. If you then decide to continue you can Subscribe for only £14.95 pa via PayPal You will be able to subscribe securely using PayPal.

If you want plants added that are not on our database please feel free to contact neil@complete-gardens.co.uk In order to keep a record of your plants and to know when and how to prune them you will be required to register. Registering is easy. Just click on Specific Planting: Sow seeds either in containers early spring and transplant out late spring, or in situ late spring. Container grown plants can be planted in situ late spring or early summer. Dig a hole approximately twice the diameter and depth of the rootball for minimal disturbance. Add plenty of water to the hole. Check the plant and see which side looks best. Remove pot. If the roots look root bound, you can gently prize them apart. Carefully position the plant so it is upright and the top of the rootball is just below the soil surface. Back fill the soil around the roots. Firm the plant in using your heel or hands. This ensures good soil and root contact and prevents your plant being blown over in a wind. Water well to settle the soil around the roots. This again ensures the soil makes good contact with the roots and gives your plant a good start in its new surroundings. Propagation From Seed There are more plants of the same Genus.

If you would like to see them all please press 'Show All' button. Helianthus 'Claret' Plants I have. If you subscribe you are able to make a visual and printable list of 'Plants I Have'. You simply click on 'My Plant List' Add to 'Plants I have' and your plants are listed alphabetically with an image, plus Latin & Common name, Genus, Notes, Action – You can then view the plant info plus Delete plant from list to keep your plants lists up to date. Plants I want. You are able to make a visual printable list of 'Plants I Want' You simply click on 'My Plant List' Add plant to 'Plant I want'. Your plants are listed alphabetically with images, Latin & common name, Genus, Notes, Action – show plant info and delete plant from list OR move to Plants I Have Plants to prune. You can choose any month to see which of your plants need pruning and be advised what to do. Simply click on the plant image to view the illustrated pruning advice. This screen show plants I have that need pruning in February To keep a record of your plant lists and notes there is an annual subscription charge of only £14.95.

Payment can be made securely using PayPal. Click here to register with the option to subscribe. List of your plants with Notes. If you Subscribe you are able to add your personal notes to plants. You simply click "Add Notes" and type in the text box. You can print your notes with an image of the plant. You can view and print the list of your plants with notes. In order to keep a record of your "Notes" you will be required to Register. It is Free to Register. When you Register you able to test the site Free for 4 days. This will enable you to try out the site and see if it suits your requirements. If you then decide to continue you can Subscribe for only £14.95 pa via PayPal Add Notes You can add your personal notes to plants. You can print your notes with an image of the plant. You will be able to subscribe securely using PayPal. If you want plants added that are not on our database please feel free to contact neil@complete-gardens.co.uk * Helianthus (Plants) - Definition,meaning - Online Encyclopedia Annual Sunflower Varying widely in size and chara cter, these tough, sun-tolerant plants need lots of space.

They have big, bold flowers and can spread rapidly. Helianthus Helianthus is a member of the compositae, or Daisy family, derives its name from two Greek words, helios = sun, and anthos = flower, which accounts for the common name of Sunflower . Not now so popular as at one time, there is still a limited demand as it is useful in bold arrangements. Helianthus decapetalus Perennial sunflower USA; 1,5m Planting position: Full sun or semi-shade.Suitable for all growing regions, provided adequate watering. Ideal for planting near water, in woodland conditions with wind-protection. Requires regular watering. Cultivar: ' Vanilla Ice' ... Helianthus I've never met a person who does not like sunflower s. Big or small, sunflower s are bright and cheerful. They are enjoyed by everyone. It's no surprise, that many home gardeners grow them. And, there's a sunflower for practically any garden space you have. Helianthus annuus is native to North America. reviews for " Sunflower s: Helianthus annuus 'Musicbox'" Advertisement ...

Winning qualities: They're the 'essence of summer,' as Kolla says, and they're especially easy to grow. Genus: Helianthus General: coarse plant, 40-200 cm tall. Growth habit: erect annual, branching, from fibrous roots. Stems: rough-hairy. Leaves: mainly alternate, (the lowermost opposite), long-stalked, 10-20 cm long, mostly toothed, egg-shaped ... Texas blueweed Helianthus ciliaris This Class A noxious weed has a very limited distribution in Washington State. The only known infestation is in Yakima County. Eradication is required throughout Washington State including King County. Additional information on texas blueweed ... Plant Type: This is a herbaceous plant, it is a perennial which can reach a height of 2 Meters (7 feet ) . The stem is rough hairy. Leaves: The leaf arrangement is opposite. Leaves can reach 16cm in length (6inches). We don't actually plant sunflower s, but every year a few appear in the garden mostly immediately under hanging birdfeeders in full sun, though birds also drop the seeds elsewhere in the gardens.

The birdfeeders contain primarily Black-oil sunflower seeds (Helianthus annuu), ... Helianthus Everyone can picture prairie fields glowing with thousands of enormous round, yellow-rayed heads of sunflower s turning to follow the sun. Children and gardeners are drawn to their exuberant growth and friendly presence. Helianthus species Plants of Home and Garden Start indoors 3 weeks before last frost, or sow direct around or after last frost, 1/4-1/2" deep and 6" apart, into moist well-draining soil. Thin to 12 or 18" apart. Does not transplant well. Provide good light, and water regularly. Helianthus divaricatus (Compositae) - This common woodland flower is related to the huge domestic variety, and blooms in mid to late summer. (Photographed in WI) ... 160 (250)cm, Wild Sunflower is an annual species and parent to many garden hybrids and cultivars. The wild species is an elegant plant with an upright, branching stem and several medium sized, bright yellow flowers surrounding a brown central disk.

Helianthus Multiflorus It is so very distinct from all the other species so well known in gardens, and such a good all-round plant, that it well deserves a place. Helianthus salicifolius 'First Light' Pepper s,[66][67] corn , cucumber ,[22] soybean s,[50] tomato es, swan plant swan plant ... The name Helianthus, being derived from helios (the sun) and anthos (a flower), has the same meaning as the English name Sunflower , which it is popularly supposed has been given these flowers from a supposition that they follow the sun by day, always turning towards its direct rays. Buy now Helianthus ' Lemon Queen' ( Sunflower ' Lemon Queen') Buy now Helichrysum italicum (Curry plant) ... Sunflower ( Helianthus annuus ) is a food crop of worldwide importance, as well as a good cutflower and a plant that's fun to grow in the vegetable or flower garden. The large flowers turn to face the sun when the plant is young; once the stem becomes woody, the flowers stop turning. VIDEO: of the problem plant species in the US.

Texas Blueweed - Helianthus ciliaris ... Helianthus annuus Sunflower, Common sunflower PFAF Plant Database Physical Characteristics Helianthus annuus is a ANNUAL growing to 3 m (9ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in) at a fast rate. It is hardy to zone (UK) 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from Jul to September, and the seeds ripen from Sep to October. The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by Bees, flies.The plant is not self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. Synonyms Edible Uses: Coffee ; Oil . Seed - raw or cooked[4, 14, 94, 101, 183].

A delicious nut-like flavour, but very fiddly to extract due to the small size of the seed. Commercially there are machines designed to do this. Rich in fats, the seed can be ground into a powder[95], made into sunflower butter or used to make seed yoghurt. When mixed with cereal flours, it makes a nutritious bread[244]. Cultivars with up to 50% oil have been developed in Russia[218]. The oil contains between 44 - 72% linoleic acid[218]. The germinated seed is said to be best for seed yoghurt, it is blended with water and left to ferment[183]. The sprouted seed can be eaten raw[183]. A nutritional analysis of the seed is available[218]. Young flower buds - steamed and served like globe artichokes[2, 85, 101, 117, 183]. A mild and pleasant enough flavour, but rather fiddly[K].

Average yields range from 900 - 1,575 kg/ha of seed, however yields of over 3,375 kg/ha have been reported[269]. A high quality edible semi-drying oil is obtained from the seed[4]. It is low in cholesterol[244], and is said to be equal in quality to olive oil[4]. Used in salads, margarines, or in cooking[2, 34, 46, 57, 94, 95, 183, 269]. The roasted seed is a coffee and drinking chocolate substitute[4, 7, 100, 102]. Another report says the roasted hulls are used[183]. The leaf petioles are boiled and mixed in with other foodstuffs[7]. Composition Figures in grams (g) or miligrams (mg) per 100g of food. Seed (Fresh weight) Notes: Medicinal Uses Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.

Antipsoriatic ; Antirheumatic ; Diuretic ; Expectorant ; Febrifuge ; Stomachic . A tea made from the leaves is astringent, diuretic and expectorant, it is used in the treatment of high fevers[222]. The crushed leaves are used as a poultice on sores, swellings, snakebites and spider bites[222, 257]. The leaves are harvested as the plant comes into flower and are dried for later use[238]. A tea made from the flowers is used in the treatment of malaria and lung ailments[222, 257]. The flowering head and seeds are febrifuge, nutritive and stomachic[7]. The seed is also considered to be diuretic and expectorant[4, 218, 222]. It has been used with success in the treatment of many pulmonary complaints[4]. A decoction of the roots has been used as a warm wash on rheumatic aches and pains[257].

Other Uses Blotting paper ; Dye ; Fibre ; Fuel ; Green manure ; Herbicide ; Kindling ; Microscope ; Oil ; Paper . An edible semi-drying oil is obtained from the seed. Some varieties contain up to 45% oil[61]. The oil is also used, often mixed with a drying oil such as linseed (Linum usitatissimum) to make soap, candles, varnishes, paint etc, as well as for lighting. The oil is said to be unrivalled as a lubricant[4, 21, 34, 46, 100, 269]. A blotting paper is made from the seed receptacles[2, 4, 101, 117]. A high quality writing paper is made from the inner stalk[4, 14, 100, 101]. The pith of the stems is one of the lightest substances known, having a specific gravity of 0.028[4].

It has a wide range of applications, being used for purposes such as making life-saving appliances and slides for microscopes[4, 46, 61]. The dried stems make an excellent fuel, the ash is rich in potassium[4]. Both the dried stems and the empty seed receptacles are an excellent kindling[4]. A fibre from the stem is used to make paper[4] and a fine quality cloth[1, 94, 101]. A yellow dye is obtained from the flowers[4, 14, 94, 95]. A purple-black dye is obtained from the seed of certain varieties that were grown by the Hopi Indians of S.W. North America[117, 169]. Sunflowers can be grown as a spring-sown green manure, they produce a good bulk of material[87]. Root secretions from the plant can inhibit the growth of nearby plants[201]. Cultivation details Landscape Uses:Border, Container, Foundation, Massing, Seashore, Specimen.

An easily grown plant, it succeeds in most soils[1, 34, 117], including poor soils provided they are deep and well-drained[269], but it grows best in a deep rich soil[1, 200]. Plants are intolerant of acid or waterlogged conditions[269]. Especially when grown for its edible seed, the plant prefers a sunny position[1, 34, 117, 269] though it also tolerates light shade[1]. Requires a neutral or preferably calcareous soil[200]. As sunflowers have highly efficient root systems, they can be grown in areas which are too dry for many other crops[269]. Established plants are quite drought-resistant except during flowering[117, 269]. The sunflower tolerates an annual precipitation of 20 - 400cm, an average annual temperature in the range of 6 - 28°C and a pH in the range of 4.5 - 8.7[269]. The young growth is extremely attractive to slugs, plants can be totally destroyed by them[K].

Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer or rabbits[233]. The sunflower is a very ornamental plant that is widely grown in gardens and is also a major commercial crop for its edible seed and many other uses[1, 4]. It grows well in Britain, but it does not ripen its seed reliably in this country and so is not suitable for commercial cultivation at the present[K]. It is the state flower of Kansas[85]. Three distinct groups of sunflowers are cultivated:- Giant types grow from 1.8 - 4.2 metres tall with flower heads 30 - 50cm in diameter. The seeds are large, white or gray in colour, sometimes with black stripes, and are the best for culinary purposes, though the oil content is lower than for other types. 'Grey Stripe', 'Hopi Black Dye', 'Mammoth Russian' and 'Sundak' are examples of this type[183, 200, 269]. Semi-dwarf types grow from 1.3 - 1.8 m tall, are early maturing and have heads 17 - 23 cm diameter.

The seeds are smaller, black, gray or striped, the oil content is also higher. Examples include 'Pole Star' and 'Jupiter' Dwarf types grow from 0.6 - 1.4 m tall, are early maturing and have heads 14 - 16 cm in diameter[269. The seeds are small but the oil content is the highest. Examples include 'Advance' and 'Sunset'[269]. Some forms are being bred for greater cold tolerance and should be more reliable in Britain[117, 141]. Plants tend to grow better in the south and south-west of England[4]. Most forms require a four month frost-free growing season[117], though some Russian cultivars can mature a crop in 70 days[269]. When plants are grown in cooler latitudes the seed contains higher proportions of polyunsaturated fatty oils[117]. The plant has a strong taproot that can penetrate the soil to depth of 3 metres, it also has a large lateral spread of surface roots[269].

Sunflowers grow badly with potatoes but they do well with cucumbers and corn[18, 20, 201]. A very greedy and vigorous plant, it can inhibit the growth of nearby plants[20]. Plants tend to impoverish the soil if they are grown too often in the same place[117]. A good bee plant, providing large quantities of nectar[18, 34, 244]. The flowers attract beneficial insects such as lacewings and parasitic wasps[238]. These prey on various insect pests, especially aphis[238]. Special Features:Attracts birds, Attractive foliage, North American native, Edible, Naturalizing, Wetlands plant, Attracts butterflies, Suitable for cut flowers, Suitable for dried flowers. Propagation Seed - sow in mid spring in situ. An earlier start can be made by sowing 2 - 3 seeds per pot in a greenhouse in early spring. Use a fairly rich compost. Thin to the strongest seedling, give them an occasional liquid feed to make sure they do not become nutrient deficient and plant them out in late spring or early summer.

Seed, harvested at 12% moisture content and stored, will retain its viability for several years[269]. Other Names Found In Weed Potential Right plant wrong place. We are currently updating this section. Please note that a plant may be invasive in one area but may not in your area so it’s worth checking. Conservation Status IUCN Red List of Threatened Plants Status : Related Plants Sunflower Sunflower Common names Sunflower Sunflower (botanical name, Helianthus annuus) is a tall, remarkable, annually growing plant which grows up to a height of 3 feet to 10 feet (1 m to 3 m). The sunflower plant has a fleshy, coarse and hairy stem, while the leaves are broad and roughly-textured. In addition, the leaves of this plant have unevenly indented borders with noticeable veins. The plant bears familiar vividly yellow hued flowers that have brownish centers akin to a honeycomb, which are made up of tubular flowers. When these flowers mature, they yield recognizable seeds that have a pale grayish color.

Helianthus, the botanical name of sunflower, is derived from the Latin terms ï¿½anthos' meaning flower and ï¿½helios' denoting the Sun. In fact, the species' botanical name refers to the round yellowish heads that bear a resemblance to the sun's sphere encircled by rays. The flower heads are also believed to rotate with the intention that they turn towards the sun all the time. Therefore, it is little surprising that sunflower is known as ï¿½girasol' and ï¿½tournesol' in Spanish and French respectively. This flower is said to have its origin in Peru, where the ancient Incas tribe worshipped the sun and considered the sunflower to be the insignia of their Sun god. In fact, the Inca priestesses wore headdresses made of sunflower and these flowers were decorated in gold adorning the sun temple of the Incas. The seeds of the sunflower yield light yellow oil which contains high concentration of unsaturated fats. The oil produced from sunflower seeds has a mild flavour compared to olive oil and it is believed to be healthy for the arteries in comparison to butter owing to the oil's low content of saturated fat.

In recent times, margarine prepared from sunflower oil has become a well accepted substitute to butter. People in Spain roast the seeds of sunflower in their shells and enjoy them as a snack. Sunflower seeds have rich content of vitamins B1 , B3 and B6 and can also be prepared into a wholesome spread, which is available from your neighbourhood health food stores. It is important to note that all parts of the sunflower plant are valuable. While the leaves of the plant form excellent fodder for cattle, in earlier times, the fibrous stems of the plant were used in manufacturing paper. Even the tender flower buds may be boiled in water and consumed like artichokes . Parts used Seeds, leaves, flower buds. Uses Different parts of the sunflower plant possess a number of therapeutic properties and, hence, they are very useful medicinally. For instance, the sunflower seeds possess diuretic and expectorant properties and, not long back, were deemed to be very useful for treating respiratory problems like coughs , colds and bronchitis . Then again, the leaves and flowers of this plant were regarded as effective remedies for protection from malaria . In effect, the leaves and flowers have a feeble insecticidal attributes.

In traditional Russian medicine, a poultice prepared with fresh sunflower leaves was used to treat fevers . An herbal tea prepared with sunflower flowers possesses astringent, diuretic and expectorant properties and, hence, it is given to people enduring high fevers. Crushed sunflower leaves are used to made poultices and applied externally on swellings, sores, snakebites and spider bites. The leaves of the sunflower plant are collected when the plant is in bloom and are dehydrated and stored for later use. An herbal tea prepared with the flowers is employed to treat malaria and lung diseases . In addition, the seeds and flowering heads of the plant are febrifuge (any medicine that reduces fever), stomachic (a medicine that is good for the digestive tract) and nourishing. The sunflower seeds are also deemed to be an effective diuretic and expectorant and have been successfully used in treating pulmonary ailments. A decoction prepared with the sunflower roots can be used as a warm wash to get relief from rheumatic aches and pains . The oil extracted from the sunflower seeds is among the several emollients (soothers) derived from plants that imitate the skin's lipid or fat content.

The sunflower oil is gently textured and it facilitates in stabilizing as well as sustaining the arrangement of skin's inner multifaceted inter-cellular matrix and helps in avoiding moisture loss and damage to the cells . In addition, topical application of sunflower oil on the skin makes it supple and soft, while giving the skin a healthy and glowing appearance. The seeds of the sunflower plant may be consumed raw or after cooking them. They have an appetizing flavour akin to nuts, but are extremely tricky to extract owing to their petite size. When sunflower is cultivated commercially, specific machines perform the job of extracting the seeds. The sunflower seeds, which have a rich fat content, may be pulverized into a powder, used to make seed yoghurt and even made into sunflower butter. The seed powder makes a delicious and nourishing food (bread) when mixed with cereal flours. In Russia, scientists have developed a number of sunflower cultivars that yield up to 50 per cent oil, which encloses around 44 per cent to 72 per cent linoleic acid . It may be noted that the germinated sunflower seed is considered to be the best for preparing seed yoghurt.

To prepare the seed yoghurt, the germinated seeds are mixed with water and allowed to ferment. In addition, the sprouted sunflower seed can also be consumed raw. Scientists have prepared a nutritional analysis of the sprouted sunflower seed and it is said to be very nourishing. One can also steam the young sunflower buds and eat them like round artichokes. The sunflower seed also yields high grade edible semi-drying oil, which has low cholesterol content. This particular oil is believed to have the same excellence as the olive oil. The semi-drying oil extracted from sunflower seeds is used in cooking , salads and even margarines. When the seed is roasted, it forms a substitute for coffee and drinking chocolate . According to one report, the roasted hulls of the sunflower seeds are also used. Some people even boil the leaf petioles of sunflower and blend them with other edibles. As mentioned earlier, semi-drying edible oil is extracted from sunflower seed. Apart from consumption, this particular form of sunflower oil is frequently blended with any drying oil, for instance, linseed (botanical name, Linum usitatissimum) to manufacture candles, soap, varnishes, paints and several other products.

In addition, this oil is also used for lighting. This semi-drying edible sunflower oil is also known to be a matchless lubricant. The seed receptacles are also used to manufacture a type of blotting paper. The inner stalk of the sunflower plant is used to manufacture superior grade writing paper. The pith of the sunflower stem is among the lightest substances known and has a specific gravity of 0.028. Owing to its ultra lightness, the pith of the sunflower stem is used in various ways - it is presently being used to manufacture life-saving applications as well as slides for microscope. At the same time, the dried stem of the sunflower plant forms an excellent fuel - the ash collected contains high amounts of potassium . In fact, the dehydrated stems as well as the empty seed receptacles form excellent fuels. The fiber obtained from the stem of the sunflower is used to manufacture superior quality paper as well as a fine grade cloth. The flowers yield a yellow dye, while the seeds of specific varieties of the crop cultivated by the Hopi Indians of S. W. North America yield a purple-black dye.

In addition, when sown in spring, sunflower plants may also be used as a green manure, as they yield an excellent mass of material. However, while growing sunflower, you ought to know that the secretions from the roots of this plant have the potential to slow down the growth of other plants grown in the vicinity. Habitat and cultivation The sunflower is indigenous to Central America and it is believed to have originated in Peru. Later, this plant was introduced to various other regions across the globe, including North America, Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean and the erstwhile USSR. While it is cultivated as a decorative garden plant across the globe, sunflower is commercially cultivated extensively in countries like the United States, Italy, Argentina, Rumania and Hungary. The sunflower is propagated by its seeds, which are sowed during the middle of spring in situ (in the permanent place of the plants). The sunflower may also be sown earlier by sowing two to three seeds in each pot in a green house during the earlier part of spring. When growing sunflower, always use moderately rich compost. Once the seeds germinate, provide the seedling with a liquid feed from time to time to ensure that they do not suffer from nutrient deficiency.

When the young plants have grown sufficiently large to be handled, plant them outdoors in the latter part of spring or in early summer. The seeds of the sunflower plant are always harvested in weather conditions where there is 12 per cent moisture and stored for later use. When harvested in such conditions, the seeds will retain their strength for many years. It is important to accustom the young plants to outdoors conditions prior to transplanting them outdoors in deep, refined soil . The plants should be positioned at least 60 cm (2 feet) apart and initially supported with tall sticks. A sunny site that is well sheltered from strong winds is the ideal place to plant the young sunflower plants. Since the plants are tall and their flowers usually appear at great heights, there is little or no scope of the crop being affected by soil-borne fungus or any bug problem. In effect, this means that even people cultivating the plant in non-organic methods would be less inclined to use poisonous pesticides / herbicides while cultivating sunflower.

Constituents The sunflower seeds produce a gently consistent textured, oleic acid rich soothing oil and contains great quantities of vitamins A , D and E , unsaturated fatty acids and lecithin that make it ideal for eye care as well as delicate skin care. In addition, the seeds of sunflower also enclose helianol. Helianol is known to have a powerful anti-inflammatory outcome on the skin.

Question: Which plant widely cultivated for its seeds and oil has the Latin name Helianthus Annus?
Answer: Sunflower