Aztec Sunflower (Helianthus maximilani)

Aztec Sunflower (Helianthus maximilani): interesting species of North American sunflower resistant to temperatures down to -15°C, this flower has edible roots, made of white filaments of just over 0.5 cm, soft and sweet; it was largely used by the Native American tribes, by the Sioux, in particular.

Spring sowing, all summer bloom. They do not hybridize with other sunflowers. The plant has deep roots and  few water requirements, it needs to be irrigated in particularly dry periods.

Suitable for pot cultivation also, but in this case the need of water will be higher.

 Full sun exposure, leave 40 cm between plants, as between rows. The collection of the seeds starts when the cypseles dry out, those are the yellow capsules of about 5-7 cm that contain the seeds, and follow the flowers. Anticipate the harvest a little to prevent them from scattering in the wind.

Sowing should be done on the surface, the seeds should not be completely buried such it is also the case with tobacco, strawberries, and Electric daisies.