Helianthus maximiliani. 55 to 100 days.
Maximilian is a native, perennial sunflower named after German Prince Alexander Maximilian of Wied-Nuewied, an explorer and naturalist whose journeys took him across the western regions of America in the 1830s.
Large, sturdy green stems which grow to between 39 and 96 inches in height produce gorgeous yellow, 3 inch flowers in summer through fall. The leaves are 4 to 8 inches in length and taper at both ends.
Tall, showy, and reliable, this sunflower variety attracts all manner of bees, butterflies, and songbirds, making it a favorite of home gardeners Deer are also quite attracted to this variety and enjoy feeding on the leaves.
May not flower until the 2nd year, but this variety is a true perennial and will continue to come back year after year.
Maximilian Sunflower
Growth Chart
Hardiness Zones: 4 to 9 Light Requirement: Full to partial sun Soil Type: Average, well-drained Sow Depth: 1/4 inch Plant Spacing: 6 inches Germination Note: Cold stratification required Stratification Time: 30 days Bloom Time: August through October Growing Tips
Direct sow in late fall by planting seeds 1/2 inch deep. For spring planting, mix seeds in the refrigerator with moist sand (cold stratification) and store in the refrigerator for 30 days before direct sowing.
To start indoors, cold stratify for 30 days before sowing seeds 1/2 inch deep in small, individual pots or seed flats. Keep soil lightly moist and at a temperature between 65 and 70 degrees F until germination, which should occur within 10 to 20 days. Transplant outdoors once the weather has warmed and the seedlings are well established.
A Note on Cold Stratification
These seeds require cold, moist stratification. To naturally stratify the seeds, plant outdoors late fall on a weed-free site and allow seeds to overwinter.
To artificially stratify the seeds, place the seeds and a moist medium (such as a damp paper towel, coffee filter, sand, or vermiculite) in a labeled, sealed plastic bag and store in a refrigerator (33-40°F) for the amount of time noted on the growth chart before sowing.