Sunflower Helianthus Petiolaris
One scarcely needs an introduction to the cheery Sunflower which overruns roadsides and fallow fields everywhere at 3000-8000 ft. The plants are 2-5 ft. tall and bear flowers all summer. This species is the western form of the common sunflower, Helianthus annuus. The latter was held in high veneration by the ancient Peruvians and Mexicans, being used by them as a sacred and artistic emblem. It also figures in Greek mythology. The farmer of today, however, regards it quite otherwise when it invades his cultivated fields. It is, nevertheless, the state flower of Kansas. The name Sunflower was given this plant under the impression that the heads turn their faces always towards the sun and follow it in its daily course. This is not the case, however, for though the heads of a field of sunflowers are usually turned in the same direction, this is due to the effect of the prevailing wind rather than to sunlight.
The common sunflower is cultivated for the sake of the honey and wax which are obtained from the flowers by the bees, and also for its seeds which are used in various ways. They furnish feed for domestic and farm animals, or are ground and made into cakes, or roasted and used as coffee. In Russia they are sold in the streets and eaten as nuts. An oil also is obtained from them that is said to be equal to olive oil.
ASTER FAMILY
1 Bur Marigold: Bidens levis
2 Mountain Arnica: Arnica cordifolia
3 Gaillardia: Gaillardia aristata
4 Butterweed: Senecio Fendleri
5 Goldweed: Ximenesia encelioides
6 Actinella: Actinella Richardsonii
7 Dwarf Sunflower: Helianthella Parryi