Helianthus annuus
(Common Sunflower)
Helianthus annuus, Lathrop State Park, Huerfano Co. 7605
Helianthus annuus, SE of Mesa, Mesa Co. 2963
Helianthus annuus, SE of Mesa, Mesa Co. 2980
Helianthus annuus, SE of Mesa, Mesa Co. 2966
Helianthus annuus, SE of Mesa, Mesa Co. 2973
Leaves, Helianthus annuus, SE of Mesa, Mesa Co. 2975
Leaves, Helianthus annuus, SE of Mesa, Mesa Co. 2969
| Scientific Name | Helianthus annuus | USDA PLANTS Symbol | HEAN3 |
| Common Name | Sunflower, Common Sunflower | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 36616 |
| Family | Asteraceae (Sunflower) | SEINet Reference |
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| Description | Habitat: Plains to montane (3300 to 9000 ft.); dry soils, disturbed areas, fence rows. Widely distributed. Plant: Erect annual, widely branching 1 to 8 feet tall, rough, hairy stems. Leaves: Rough, alternate, ovate to ovate-oblong with cordate bases; blades 4 to 16 inches long and nearly as wide on long petioles. Inflorescence: Bright yellow composite flower heads 3 to 5 inches across with 17 to 30 rays surrounding normally dark brown central disk florets; wide phyllaries ovate to lance-ovate, with ciliate margins, and abruptly narrowed, pointed tips. Bloom Period: June to October. References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, "Wildflowers of the Rocky Mountains" by Carl Schreier and SEINet. |
BONAP Distribution Map Map Color Key |
Colorado Status: Native |
© Tom Lebsack 2024
Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains