''Helianthus agrestis'' is a species of

sunflower The common sunflower (''Helianthus annuus'') is a large annual forb of the genus ''Helianthus'' grown as a crop for its edible oily seeds. Apart from cooking oil production, it is also used as livestock forage (as a meal or a silage plant), as ...

known by the common name southeastern sunflower. It is one of 150 sunflower species in the genus ''Helianthus''. It is found only in the states of Florida and Georgia in the southeastern United States. This plant is native to Florida. It grows in wet soil in marshes and pine flatwoods at elevations less than 50 meters (170 feet) elevation.Flora of North America, ''Helianthus agrestis'' Pollard, 1900. Southeastern sunflower
/ref>Pollard, Charles Louis 1900. Proceedings of the Biological Society of Washington 13(38): 184
/ref>

Description

''Helianthus agrestis'' plants can grow up to one meter tall. ''Helianthus agrestis'' is a flowering plant that has bright orange-yellow rays. Each plant can have about 10-15 rays and up to 50 disc florets. The bright colors on this plant make it attractive to many pollinators. The leaves of this plant are oval shaped and have a petiolate attachment and alternate on the stem. The stem is branched and hairy with some pubescence.

Growth

''Helianthus agrestis'' are an annual species that flower in the late summer to early fall months.''Helianthus'' species require a lot of sun to grow. For optimal growth, the plant should get at least 6 hours of full sun a day. Sunflower seeds also contain a toxic substance that will kill all nearby grass.

Habitat

Helianthus agrestis is native to Florida. Outside of Florida, it is also only found in Thomasville, Georgia.

Significance

''Helianthus agrestis'' is a popular plant amongst humans for cosmetic and decorative purposes. In wildlife, birds and small mammals consume ''Helianthus agrestis'' seeds. It is primarily pollinated by bees.

References

agrestis Flora of the Southeastern United States Plants described in 1753 Taxa named by Carl Linnaeus {{Heliantheae-stub