Is it possible for sunflowers to grow in sand?

Yes. Although sunflowers prefer soil that provides plenty of nutrients, they have been known to grown in sand. Ideally, however, they need richer soil, and sand is far from a healthy environment. Also, the conditions of the sand make a difference. Sunflowers cannot grow in a sandy desert, exposed to too much sun and wind, but they will grow - tentatively - in sheltered sandy positions.