Helianthus praecox is a North American species of sunflower known by the common name Texas sunflower. It is endemic to Texas. Most of the populations are either along the Gulf Coast or in the Río Grande Valley. Helianthus praecox grows on sandy soils and coastal prairies. It is an annual herb up to 150 cm (60 inches or 5 feet) tall. One plant usually produces 1-3 flower heads, each containing 11-16 yellow ray florets surrounding 35 or more red or purple disc florets.