Helianthus salicifolius
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Tried and True Recommended by 6 Professionals
Species Native to Missouri
Common Name: willow-leaved sunflower
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Asteraceae
Zone: 4 to 9
Native Range: South central United States
Garden Location: Lucy and Stanley Lopata Prairie Garden
Height: 8 to 10 feet
Spread: 1 to 3 feet
Bloom Time: September to October
Bloom Color: Brown, Yellow
Bloom Description: Yellow rays and dark brown center disks
Sun: Full sun
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Medium
Flowers: Showy Flowers
Wildlife: Attracts Birds, Attracts Butterflies
Tolerates: Clay Soil, Deer
Uses: Cut Flower, Will Naturalize

Culture

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerant of wide range of soil conditions. If grown in part shade, plants tend to be taller and more open, produce fewer flowers and require support. Spreads over time by creeping rhizomes to form dense colonies. Divide every 3-4 years to control spread and maintain vigor.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Willow-leaved sunflower is a Missouri native plant that occurs in unglaciated western Missouri prairie areas south of the Missouri River. Features clusters (branched panicles) of 2-2.5" wide sunflowers with bright yellow rays and dark brown center disks atop rigid, whitish-green stems typically growing 5-6' (less frequently to 8') tall. Narrow, drooping, willow-like, pale green leaves (5-7"). Blooms from late summer to fall. Good fresh cut flower.

Plant of Merit

The late season floral display of bright yellow sunflowers with brown centers makes this plant one of the most spectacular fall blooming plants. The stems will grow to over 10 feet in part sun, but only half this height in full sun. They respond well to a variety of moisture and soil conditions.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Taller plants may need staking.

Garden Uses

Attractive foliage and profuse late summer to fall bloom make this an excellent addition to the border background, wild or native plant garden, or naturalized planting.

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