Prairie Sunflower
Helianthus petiolaris originated in the dry prairies of Minnesota, Oregon, Texas, the Dakotas, California, and other states in Western and Central United States. It has since expanded its distribution to throughout the Eastern United States and into central and western Canada.
Prairie sunflowers are commonly found growing in sandy areas. They can also be found in heavy clay soil and in dry prairies. They are unable to grow in shady areas; they need to be in direct sunlight. Prairie sunflowers require dry to moist soil.
This species of sunflower is an annual flower, blooming between June and September.
The seeds in the plant are edible and can be ground up into an oily meal or into a butter.
Powdered leaves of the prairie sunflower are said to work well with the healing of sores and swellings.