Asteraceae
woodland sunflower
Helianthus divaricatus
Synonyms
Helianthus divaricatus var. angustifolius
Helianthus divaricatus var. divaricatus
Plant Type
Herbaceous Wildflower
Life Cycle
Perennial
Typical Size
5-7 ft. tall
1-3 ft. wide
Tolerant of
Drought
Inolerant of
Poorly Drained Soil
Propagation
By seed
Plant Propagation Notes
Seeds should be cold moist stratified for 3-4 weeks.
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 serrate margins.
Flowers
Heads with 8-15 yellow ray flowers and slightly darker disc flowers.
Fruit
Achene.
Toxicity
No known toxicity.

USDA Hardiness Zones
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Light Exposure
Part Sun/Shade
Soil Moisture
Dry, Medium
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Soil pH
Acidic (less than 6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0)
Native in South Carolina?
Yes
Plant Native Habitat
Woodlands, forests, and forest edges with xeric to mesic soil.
Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)
Secure (G5)
Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)
Not Listed
Distribution Notes
Rare in the South Carolina coastal plain and sandhills. Common in the piedmont and mountains.