Aztec sunflower (Helianthus maximiliani)

Aztec Sunflower (Helianthus maximiliani): An interesting North American sunflower species resistant to temperatures down to -15°C. The roots of this plant are edible, consisting of white filaments just over 0.5 cm long, soft and sweet, and were widely used by Native American tribes, particularly the Sioux. Sown in spring, they bloom throughout the summer; they do not hybridize with other sunflowers. The plant reaches 2 meters in height and has deep roots that require limited water; if grown in the ground, this is only possible during periods of particular drought. If growing in pots, watering will need to be more frequent. For full sun exposure, leave 40 cm between plants and between rows.

The seeds are collected when the cypselae, the capsules that contain the seeds and follow the flowers, yellow and with a diameter of about 5/7 cm, dry out.

Harvest a little early to prevent them from blowing away. Sow directly above ground, without burying the seeds, like tobacco, strawberries, and Electric Daisy.