Common Sunflower
In late summer we look forward to one of the last wildflowers to bloom here in northeast Kansas, the wild sunflower.
There are several different varieties of wild sunflowers growing in the roadside ditches, in fence-rows, or in grassy fields.
This one is called the Common Sunflower.
The Common Sunflower is native to North America, and was cultivated by native Americans over a 1000 years ago.
The large-headed cultivated sunflowers you see today were derived from this wildflower.
It’s not been a good year for wildflowers with the drought and heat, but sunflowers laugh in the face of dry weather and bloom anyway.
Their cheerfulness is an especially bright spot in this long summer.
oxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
I love the Kansas sunflowers growing beside the road. We have crossed the state many times and enjoyed their bright faces.
Suzanne, more lovely photos! I love the story about sunflowers, I learn something new with every post. You are a wealth of information and so kind to share with us. I hope you and Harland have a wonderful holiday!
Sunflowers are my favorite flowers…and I like the wild ones with the smaller heads better than the large, cultivated ones. They always look so cheery! Your photos are fabulous!
I love sunflowers and your pictures of them are beautiful. I especially like the third one where you got a ladybug on one of the petals. Great shot!
Beautiful! <3
Me too, I love sunflowers. Wish we had them growing wild here.
Sunflowers are such happy flowers! Your photos are lovely with the sun setting in behind, illuminating the bright yellow petals! You live in a beautiful place! xx
Yes, a long summer it is!! These photos are absolutely GORGEOUS Suzanne! My gosh, really, they are breathtaking! My absolute faves are #2, #6 and #8!