Sunflower (Helianthus)

About the Sunflower

The sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is a living organism in the family Asteraceae, with a large flower head (capitulum). The stem of the flower can grow up to 3 metres tall, with a flower head that can be 30 cm wide. Other types of sunflowers include the California Royal Sunflower, which has a burgundy (red + purple) flower head.

Heliotropism

A common misconception is that sunflowers track the Sun across the sky. Mature sunflowers typically face east. However, the flower buds and young leaves do exhibit heliotropism (sun-tracking).

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