Helianthus cusickii is a species of sunflower known by the common names Cusick's sunflower and turniproot sunflower. It is native to the western United States from Washington, Oregon, Idaho, northern California, and northwestern Nevada.Biota of North America Program 2014 county distribution mapCalflora taxon report, University of California, Helianthus cusickii A. Gray, Cusick's sunflower , photos, interactive California distribution mapTurner Photographics, Helianthus cusickii - Wildflowers of the Pacific Northwest photos, description, partial distribution map
Helianthus cusickii grows in mountain forests and foothills. This wildflower is a perennial up to 120 cm (4 feet) tall, growing from a thick, fleshy taproot. The lance-shaped leaves reach 15 centimeters (6 inches) in length, and the stem and foliage are often covered in long hairs. The flower heads have a base of long, hairy green phyllaries. The center of the head is filled with at least 40 yellow disc florets surrounded by 12–16 ray florets.Flora of North America, Helianthus cusickii A. Gray, 1886. Cusick’s sunflower
Some Plateau Indian tribes used the roots to treat erectile dysfunction, wasting, and tuberculosis.
References
External links Jepson Manual Treatment United States Department of Agriculture Plants Profile University of Washington, Burke Museum, Washington Profile and Photos