hudson valley velvet queen sunflower seeds

The deep velvet luster of this sunflower suggests its lofty station in the royal garden hierarchy. Its maroon flower heads nod, turn, and wave regally from their high thrones as they follow the sun's arc across the summer sky. Not content just to hover above loftily, sunflower blooms are useful, too: their seeds provide sustenance for migratory birds, oil for cooking, ornaments for palaces, and snacks for hungry humans of every class.