Helianthus annuus are susceptible to powdery mildew caused by fungi in the order Erysiphales. The present invention relates to novel Helianthus interspecific hybrids containing a genetic resistance to powdery mildew. The present invention also relates to methods for creating novel Helianthus interspecific hybrids containing a genetic resistance to powdery mildew and Helianthus interspecific hybrids produced by the method.
