Western Sunflower

Description:

Helianthus anomalus is of particular interest due to its genetics. It was produced via hybridization of two other sunflower species, H. annuus and H. petiolaris, multiple times between approximately 60,000 and 200,000 years ago.Helianthus anomalus is found in the United States in Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada and Utah.

Habitat:

Helianthus anomalus has unique traits that allows it to thrive in its stressful sand dune environment. Helianthus anomalus has a high leaf succulence, which allows it to survive long periods of drought common to its habitat.

Notes:

These are all over Utah.