Asteraceae
Appalachian sunflower
Helianthus atrorubens
Synonyms
Helianthus atrorubens var. atrorubens
Helianthus atrorubens var. alsodes
Other Common Names
hairy wood sunflower, purpledisc sunflower
Plant Type
Herbaceous Wildflower
Life Cycle
Perennial
Typical Size
3-5 ft. tall
1-3 ft. wide
Tolerant of
Drought
Inolerant of
Poorly Drained Soil
Propagation
By seed
Plant Propagation Notes
Cold moist stratification is required for germination.
Plant Planting Notes
Provide up to 3 ft spacing.
Plants/Diseases
No significant disease or pest issues.
Wildlife Benefits
Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Host plant for butterfly larvae, Fruit/seeds for birds
Leaves
Leaves opposite, lanceolate to ovate with crenate or serrate margins and a rough texture.
Flowers
Two inch wide heads with 10-15 yellow ray flowers and dark brown to purple disc flowers.
Fruit
Achene.
Toxicity
No known toxicity.

USDA Hardiness Zones
6, 7, 8
Light Exposure
Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade
Soil Moisture
Medium, Moist
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Native in South Carolina?
Yes
Plant Native Habitat
Woodlands and roadbanks with dry rocky, sandy, or clayey soils.
Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)
Secure (G5)
Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)
Not Listed
Distribution Notes
Common throughout South Carolina.