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.

Helianthus atrorubens

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.