Quick answer: Maximilian sunflower (Helianthus maximiliani) is native to 3 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Jim Pisarowicz, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Low water, Dry-Moist |
| Soil | Moist clay-like soil, tolerant of wide range including limestone, sand, loam, clay |
| Bloom | Bloom Aug-Nov |
| Height | Up to 10 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Palatable to deer, seeds eaten by birds, nectar for bees/butterflies, special value to native and honey bees |
Naturalized eastward and occasionally westward beyond native range; not formally regulated.
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Maximilian sunflower
Where is Maximilian sunflower native?
Maximilian sunflower (Helianthus maximiliani) is native to Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Maximilian sunflower bloom?
Maximilian sunflower blooms Aug-Nov. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Maximilian sunflower need?
Light: Sun. Water: Low water, Dry-Moist. Soil: Moist clay-like soil, tolerant of wide range including limestone, sand, loam, clay. Mature height: Up to 10 ft tall.
Is Maximilian sunflower good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Palatable to deer, seeds eaten by birds, nectar for bees/butterflies, special value to native and honey bees.
Is Maximilian sunflower deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Maximilian sunflower is drought-tolerant.
Where can I buy real Maximilian sunflower seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Helianthus maximiliani on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Maximilian sunflower.
- Scarlet sage Salvia coccinea
- Pink evening primrose Oenothera speciosa
- Desert willow Chilopsis linearis
- Leavenworth's eryngo Eryngium leavenworthii
- Mealy blue sage Salvia farinacea
- Royal catchfly Silene regia
Also listed under
Get the full buying guide
Every pick worth knowing across pollinators, shade, drought and more, in one PDF, with the tradeoffs spelled out. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.