Helianthus niveus is a species of sunflower known by the common names showy sunflower and snowy sunflower. It is native to northern Mexico (Sonora, Baja California, Baja California Sur) and the Southwestern United States (Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, and West Texas).SEINet, Southwestern biodiversity, Arizona Chapter, Helianthus niveus (Benth.) Brandeg. includes photos, description, distribution mapCalflora taxon report, University of California, Helianthus niveus (Benth.) Brandegee Silver leaved sunflower, desert sunflower, showy sunflower photos, California distribution map
Helianthus niveus is a taprooted annual or perennial sunflower growing to a maximum height over 1 m (40 in). The leaves are oval or lance-shaped, often with irregular lobes or teeth, and are covered in soft, white hairs. The flower heads are fringed with 13-21 bright yellow ray florets up to 2.5 cm (1 in) long surrounding a center of yellow to purple-red disc florets.Jepson Manual Treatment
Habitat H. niveus grows in sandy soils, most often in sand dunes.
References
External links USDA Plants Profile for Helianthus niveus (showy sunflower) Calflora: Helianthus niveus (Desert sunflower, Silver leaved sunflower) UC Calphotos gallery