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Growth Type Annual
Hardiness Zones 2-11
Planting Conditions Full Sun
TJ Documented Plant Yes
While Jefferson took great interest in plants, such as sesame and olive trees, that produced useful oils, there is no indication that he recognized such a benefit in the Sunflower. His listing of it as one of the "Hardy perennial flowers" sown at Monticello in September 1771, seems to show that he grew it for its large and striking flower, a quality that keeps it in ornamental gardens today.

Visit Monticello’s Online Shop to check for seeds or plants of Sunflower.

Typical Blooming Dates: June - August
Color(s): Yellow
Location at Monticello: Vegetable Garden