Etymology: Helianthus: derived from two Greek words helios, "sun," and anthos, "flower," in reference to the sunflower's supposed tendency to always turn toward the sun
Plants: erect, annual, 3'-10' tall forb with leafy, roughly hairy stems
Leaves: mostly alternate, long-stalked, largest wide and oval, rough on both sides
Flowers: head 3"-6" wide with yellow rays and a flat, dark disk at least 1 1/4" wide; inflorescence with several heads in a branched cluster, escaped cultivated forms usually with only 1 large head; blooms July-Sept.
Fruits: dry, edible seed
Habitat: sun; moist; disturbed sites
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Conservation Status: Introduced - naturalized

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Wetland Indicator = FAC- USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada"