Maximilian's Sunflower
Helianthus maximiliani
Last reviewed: June 2026
Maximilian's Sunflower is a native prairie perennial blooming yellow flowers from August through October across much of North America. This drought-tolerant wildflower attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles to gardens and natural areas.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Maximilian's Sunflower as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
36"–84" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CO and 33 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Maximilian's sunflower is a tall native perennial that produces masses of bright yellow daisy-like flowers from late summer through fall. This prairie wildflower forms upright clumps and can reach up to 7 feet tall, making it an excellent backdrop plant for naturalized areas.
Growing Maximilian's Sunflower
Grow Maximilian's Sunflower in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 36 to 84 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Maximilian's Sunflower takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very tall height appears wild and uncontrolled
- Can spread aggressively through underground rhizomes
- Dies back completely leaving tall brown stalks in winter
Wildlife value
The abundant late-season blooms provide crucial nectar for migrating butterflies and native bees when few other flowers remain. Seeds attract goldfinches and other songbirds through winter.
Common questions
- When does Maximilian's Sunflower bloom?
- Maximilian's Sunflower blooms from August through October, providing late-season color when many other wildflowers have finished flowering.
- What pollinators visit Maximilian's Sunflower?
- This native sunflower attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles. The late-season blooms provide important nectar sources for migrating butterflies and other pollinators preparing for winter.
- Where is Maximilian's Sunflower native?
- Maximilian's Sunflower is native to a large portion of North America, including much of the Great Plains, Midwest, and parts of the Southeast and West Coast states.
- What growing conditions does Maximilian's Sunflower prefer?
- This prairie native thrives in full sun and low water conditions, making it an excellent choice for drought-tolerant landscaping and xeriscaping projects.
- Is Maximilian's Sunflower toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Maximilian's Sunflower as toxic to livestock.
- Is Maximilian's Sunflower HOA-friendly?
- Maximilian's Sunflower takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Maximilian's Sunflower? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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