Public lecture – The tale of the sunflower and its travels in Ukraine

The sunflower, a vibrant and essential part of global cuisine, holds a unique place in Ukraine’s cultural and historical landscape. Today, sunflower oil is a staple in local and regional kitchen, and the flower’s bright imagery is deeply woven into the nation’s cultural fabric. Yet, many might be surprised to learn that the sunflower, known as soniashnyk in Ukrainian, is not native to the local forest-steppe and steppe lands. First cultivated by Indigenous peoples in the Americas, sunflowers were introduced to Europe, then to the Russian Empire, and eventually became one of the most common crops in Ukraine. The sunflower has thrived in Eastern Europe, evolving into a cornerstone of Ukraine’s economy as the country has emerged as the world’s leading exporter of sunflower seeds and oil.

While the sunflower is a cherished icon in Ukrainian literature and art and a popular symbol of resilience, its environmental impact has not received the critical attention it deserves, particularly regarding its role in soil degradation and the spread of monoculture farming. This lecture will delve into the complex history of sunflowers within Ukraine’s economic, cultural, and environmental landscapes. By examining this agricultural plant as a source of food, cultural significance, and national wealth, the talk will illuminate the intricate relationship between sunflowers, Ukraine’s history, and its land.

The Mykola Zerov Fellowship in Ukrainian Studies is generously funded by the Ukrainian Studies Support Fund of the Association of Ukrainians in Victoria (AUV).

Light refreshments will be served prior to the lecture.