Helianthus argophyllus, also known as Silverleaf sunflower, is a wild sunflower species native to North America that is part of the secondary genepool of the cultivated sunflower. This means that H. argophyllus is more distinct from the cultivated species, and though some reproductive barriers exist between it and its cultivated relative, the Silverleaf sunflower can be bred with cultivated sunflower to produce some fertile offspring.
Several traits of interest have been identified in Helianthus argophyllus, including resistance to downy mildew (Plasmopara halstedii), [1] drought tolerance, [2] and resistance to sunflower rust (Puccinia hehanthi Schw.). [3]
