Sunflower

Sunflower

Helianthus

Zonnebloem

 

The sunflower is part of the the daisy family Asteraceae.

Sunflowers attract attract beneficial insects, including pollinators like the honey bee.

Before blooming, sunflower plants tilt during the day to face the sun in order to gain more sunlight for photosynthesis.

 

In Greek mythology, the sunflower is associated with loyalty and devotion. In one story, a nymph named Clytie was besotted with the sun god Apollo. As a result, she endeavored to follow him wherever he went. While he was at first amused, Apollo eventually lost interest in Clytie and fell in love with another nymph named Leucothoe.

 

Heartbroken and jealous, Clytie told Leucothoe’s father about his daughter’s affair with the sun god. Naturally, the protective father moved to break off the relationship between his daughter and the powerful god.

 

Enraged at the interference, Apollo turned Clytie into a sunflower. Yet, even as a flower, Clytie continued to turn her gaze constantly towards the Apollo wherever he traveled.

 

And ofcourse, the flower is simply big and beautiful.

Enjoy.

 

 

Done