Helianthus annuus L.
Asteraceae (composite family)
Location: Oil seeds
Origin: Native to N. America.
Biophysical Requirements: Adapted where corn is successful in the northern two‐thirds of the U.S. The seedlings are tolerant of frost as are the ripening seeds. Dwarf hybrids and cultivars are harvested with a combine. Early maturity cultivars are produced in Canada, North Dakota, and Minnesota. Drought tolerant.
Food Uses: The dehulled achenes (seeds) contain 35 to 50% edible oil and the extracted residues contain about 35% protein suitable for food but used mostly as feed. Some “seeds” are roasted for snack food; others are used for birdfeed.
See also Purdue University new crops website.