About Helianthus giganteus L.
Helianthus giganteus L. is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the northern United States and southern Canada. It typically reaches 1 to 3 metres (3.3 to 9.8 ft) in height, with exceptional individuals growing as tall as 4 metres (13 feet). Its leaves are lanceolate and alternate, growing to approximately 1 inch wide by 7 inches long, and they have a partly rough texture. The stalk is purple to red, covered in spreading white hairs. The plant has bright yellow flower heads that grow up to 7 cm (3 in) in diameter. It has a fibrous root system, and spreads via both seed and rhizomes; the rhizomes will eventually form a large clump. It is most commonly found in valleys containing wet meadows or swamps, and also grows near river banks. The Choctaw Indians of the southeastern United States have traditionally cultivated Helianthus giganteus, and grind its seeds to mix with ground maize to make palatable bread.
