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Sunflower

Sunflower is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to North and South America, but it is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world for its oil and seeds.

Characteristics

Sunflowers are tall, annual plants that can grow up to 3 meters in height. They have large, yellow flower heads that can measure up to 30 centimeters in diameter. The flower heads are made up of numerous small individual flowers that are arranged in a spiral pattern.

Sunflowers have a deep taproot that can grow up to 3 meters deep, which makes them highly drought-resistant. They also have a unique ability to track the movement of the sun across the sky, a phenomenon known as heliotropism.

Uses

Sunflowers are primarily grown for their oil and seeds. Sunflower oil is a popular cooking oil that is high in unsaturated fats and vitamin E. Sunflower seeds are a nutritious snack that is high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

Sunflowers are also used for ornamental purposes, as their bright yellow flowers can add a cheerful touch to gardens and landscapes.

Fun Facts

• Sunflowers are the state flower of Kansas.
• The tallest sunflower on record measured 9.17 meters tall.
• Sunflowers can be used to extract toxins from contaminated soil, a process known as phytoremediation.

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