All About Sunflowers
By Kathleen Karlsen, MA

Sunflower Symbolism

Sunflowers are symbolic of adoration. Sunflowers turn their heads to the sun, which is the origin of their common name. Sunflowers belong to the genus helianthus, a reference to Helios, the sun god.

Natural History

Sunflowers are native to the Americas and are the state flower of Kansas. The sunflower generally grows in scrub land and dry areas. Sunflowers vary widely in size depending on their adaptive genetic make up, but can reach maximums heights of about 10'.

Sunflowers have recently been bred to produce shorter varieties for garden use. The petals were originally quite small and irregular, so efforts have also been made to increase the size and number of petals. Some double petal varieties have also been created as well as variations in the color of the center (brown to black) and even of the petals (honey, beige, pinkish cream, soft yellow, pale russet).

Food Uses

Sunflower seeds are packed with healthy fats, vitamin E, protein, fiber and minerals. Sunflower oil can also be used for cooking. Sunflower serve as animal food, too, mainly for cattle and birds.

Historical and Modern Uses

The seeds of sunflowers have been used by Native Americans for blue or black dye and the petals for yellow dye. Smaller sunflower varieties are often used as cut flowers for bouquets and flower arrangements.

For more information on flower symbolism:
Illustrated Flower Symbolism Guide
The Symbolic Meaning of Flowers
Garden Flower Symbolism and Flower Facts
Flower Symbolism and Mary Gardens 

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