Native Plant Database

Header Photo: Mervin Wallace

Willow-leaved Sunflower

Helianthus salicifolius
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Prairie
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June), Late (July - frost)
Main Color: Yellow
Fall Color:

USDA PLANTS Range Map

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Sun Exposure 
Full Sun
Soil
Moisture
Dry, Moderate
Nature Attracting
Wildlife Benefit
Food/Birds
Animal
Resistance
Size

Height:

48 to
72
inches

Spread:

24 to
36
inches
Size
Height: 48 to
72
inches
Spread: 24 to
36
inches
Size
Height: 48 to
72
inches
Spread: 24 to
36
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Provides excellent texture for the perennial border and native plant garden.Use along stream and pond banks and in the cut flower garden.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Grow in full sun in soil with average moisture. Pinch plants once or twice in late spring and early summer to control height and encourage fuller plants.
Special Features
Special Usage
Fresh Cut Flower
Basic Description

Clusters of 2 in. wide, medium yellow sunflowers with dark brown centers bloom on whitish green stems. The narrow, drooping, willowlike pale green leaves are very distinctive. Blooms in late summer or early fall but the graceful foliage provides interest all through the growing season. Spreads over time to form dense colonies. Good cut flower. Can become large and gangly in rich soils; Do not fertilize.

 

Wispy green foliage.

Willow-leaved sunflower at Missouri Prairie Foundation’s Stillwell Prairie. Photo: Carol Davit.

Where Should I Start?

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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?

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