forest sunflower

Plant Type

Herbaceous Wildflower

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

3-6 ft. tall
3 ft. wide

Inolerant of

Poorly Drained Soil

Propagation

By division

Plant Planting Notes

Plant in an area where this rhizomatous plant can spread.

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 on lower portion and alternate higher up on the stems, lanceolate to ovate with serrate margins. Rough textured.

Flowers

Flowers have 8-12 bright yellow ray flowers and and slightly more golden disc flowers.

Fruit

Achene.

Bark

Reddish purple stems.

Toxicity

No known toxicity.

USDA Hardiness Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Light Exposure

Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture

Medium, Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Basic (greater than 8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Woodlands, forests, and oak savannas with mesic soils.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Rare in the South Carolina coastal plain and sandhills. Uncommon in the piedmont and mountains.