Growing Non-GMO Maximilian Sunflower Flower Seeds

Sunflower seeds are generally fast, easy to grow and most commonly sown directly outdoors, but Maximilian seeds will benefit from an 8-10 week start indoors. Start Maximilian sunflower seeds in peat pellets or starter trays 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Germination will take about 1.5 to 2 weeks. For direct sowing, plant 2-3 Maximilian seeds 0.5 inches deep and 1.5 to 2 feet apart in average, light, loamy, and well-drained soil in full sun. Maximilian sunflower is known to be drought tolerant and to thrive in poor soils. Maximilian sunflower growth is vigorous, yet can be unpredictable, with a 48-60 inches difference between the tallest and shortest of mature plants. Plan your garden accordingly and plant all Maximilian seeds at the north end of the garden to avoid casting shadows on your other plants.

Adjust staking and wind protection as plants mature. Trim back branches to shape and keep Maximilian sunflowers from becoming weedy and invasive. Maximilian sunflowers can handle mild drought, but for the biggest, brightest blooms, water whenever the soil is fully dried. Be sure it has room to spread.

Maximilian Sunflower in the Flower Garden

Maximilian Sunflowers are meant to spread out. They are not good for small or compact spaces or uses. They are perfect for the back of a property or area that needs some color and bulk. Although the flower can be used in beautiful cut arrangements, it is not typically planted in a traditional flower garden format.

Harvesting Maximilian Sunflower

While Maximilian Sunflowers will produce seeds, they are rarely collected or used in the traditional way for other sunflower varieties. The seeds do make the plants very attractive to birds.

For cut flowers: in full bloom, snip off the stem with sharp scissors. Store in cool, clean water for indoor color, lasting at least 1-2 weeks. Change out the water daily for optimal longevity. Optionally, tie a few stems together with a rubber band and hang them upside down in a well-ventilated but sheltered location for dried flowers in 2-3 weeks!

About Maximilian Sunflower Garden Seeds

Maximilian sunflowers are also known as Max Sunflower and Helianthus dalyi.

The flowerheads invite a plethora of pollinators to the area, including bees, butterflies, and a variety of birds.

Maximilian is gorgeous, but has more uses than just beauty. The flowers are said to have properties that help those suffering from arthritis. The roots and seeds are edible. The pioneers planted them to repel mosquitos near their homes (although it is possible that this flower does not repel mosquitos, but the birds it attracts eat the mosquitos). Native Americans used this plant as oil, dye, food, and thread.

Helianthus maximiliani, or Maximilian sunflower, is native to the midwest and Great Plains of Missouri and central North America. The species maximiliani honors Prince Maximilian of Wied-Neuwied, a German ethnographer, explorer, and naturalist who explored the uncharted American West along the Missouri River.

This prairie native is perfect for large perennial wildflower gardens and is a staple for local wildlife.

Stories From Our Gardeners

"The bright blooms and fuzzy stems of these endearing cottage favorites are almost too good to be true. If you have a large space ready for a beautiful and useful bush, pick the Maximilian Sunflower!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Maximilian Sunflower Seeds Per Package:

• 1 g Packet - Approximately 375 Seeds
• 1 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 10,000 Seeds
• 4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 40,000 Seeds

Non-GMO Maximilian Sunflower seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.