It’s prime time for the Maximilian sunflower, Helianthus maximiliani. I have the “Santa Fe” cultivar, which blooms a little later than the species and provides color when it’s particularly appreciated. H. maximiliani is native to Kansas and will probably survive in any but the most extreme climates. However, it’s aggressive, spreading by rhizomes and seeds, and can take over your yard if you’re not vigilant. In the right place it’s spectacular, but think carefully before planting it.
