Showy Sunflower (Helianthus laetiflorus)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Helianthus laetiflorus is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from August to October, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

taste though yields are lower. — Tubers - raw or cooked.; Used like Jerusalem artichokes, to which they are not much inferior in taste though yields are lower.

Habitat & North American Range

Open woods and thickets, often on drier soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)