Helianthus angustifolius (Swamp Sunflower) Unity Grown

Helianthus angustifolius, also called swamp sunflower, is a tall, upright, clump-forming perennial wildflower native to the eastern half of the United States. Growing to 5-8' tall, swamp sunflower produces profuse numbers of small, bright yellow blooms from late summer until fall, and these blooms are valuable to a wide variety of pollinators; related to the common annual sunflower, these blooms are a bit smaller, but just as sunny and gorgeous when in bloom from the mid summer through the fall. In addition to ornamental appeal, in the later autumn months flower heads turn to rich seed, which is prized by a variety of songbirds and other wildlife.

Helianthus angustifolius performs best in a good variety of wet soil types, as the name swamp sunflower might imply, but will tolerate both full sun and partial shade, as the name might not imply. Though tolerant of a variety of condtions, swamp sunflower will grow taller and stronger in full sun, and can most often be found in nature in acidic wetlands and near bodies of water. Aside from inland swamps, swamp sunflower's salt tolerance also makes it a great pick for planting in coastal gardens or near salt marshes as well as near streams and in any sunny area. With flowers prized by bees, butterflies, and birds, swamp sunflower is an excellent pick for a variety of garden locations, provided you have the space for such a tall wall of flowers.