Helianthus species are native from North America. Cultivated sunflower H. annuus L. has reduced genetic variability and therefore breeding programs lack significant advances. Wild species from this genus may provide the genetic pool that will allow genetic advancement. The objective of the present study is to collect germplasm lrom 72 species of Helianthus, reported as native to Mexico, for preservation and breeding purposes. During 1988 and 1990 seasons 3-5 populations from the species annuus, petiolaris, niveus and smilis were explored and herbarized. Seed was collected from 21 of these populations and is now available for use in breeding programs with cultivated sunflower. It is necessary to continue the exploration to collect plants from all the reported species and others that may exist.