Salty air, dry sandy soil, and full sunshine are the ideal conditions for the beach sunflower to flourish. It is a common wildflower of Florida’s Atlantic beach environments where it grows on the coastal dunes.  This plant survives the droughty soil by storing water in its tap-root. Lateral roots help to hold it in place against strong ocean winds. Beach sunflower brightens the seashore landscape with its copious yellow blossoms. Look for it then next time you are on the ocean beach in Florida. You will be delighted.