The sunflower plant is one of few crops native to North America, although the largest producer of sunflowers is Russia. This plant is recognized worldwide for its beauty, and is also source of food: sunflower seeds are a healthy snack, and sunflower oil is a nutritious vegetable oil.

The Native Americans cultivated sunflower crops in what are now Arizona and New Mexico, going back to 3000 B.C. They used it to make purple dye for ceremonial body paint, to treat snake bites and as a skin and hair moisturizer. The dried stalks were used as a building material.

The sunflower is thus named because it is said to track the sun across the sky. This is true when the plant is in its bud stage, but once the petals have opened sunflowers face east. This is likely a protective mechanism, since facing south or west could result in the seeds being scalded by the sun on very hot days.

Wild sunflowers begin to grow in early June and flower from August to October.

According to Statista, North Dakota, South Dakota and Texas are the primary sunflower-producing states (2014), although it is the State Flower of Kansas.

In China sunflowers symbolize longevity, while in the western part of the world they signify adoration, happiness and warmth. Because the sunflower follows the sun across the horizon it is also a symbol of faith.

The following are a few fun facts about sunflowers:

• Sunflowers can grow from 3 to 18 feet tall.
• In the US there are more than 60 different types of sunflowers
• Sunflowers can grow from eight to twelve feet tall in just six months, making them one of the fastest growing plants.
• The sunflower is the national plant of Russia.

If you'd like to order a stunning sunflower bouquet to brighten someone's day, or if you'd like to learn more about sunflowers, please contact us.

Enchanted Florist

4416 Fairmont #104

Pasadena, TX 77504

(832)850-7677

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