Helianthus angustifolius
(Narrow-leaved Sunflower, Swamp Sunflower)

Synonyms:  Helianthus angustifolia
Origin:  Native to eastern United States
Family:  Asteraceae (Aster)
Light:  Full sun
Height:  6-8'
Spacing:  9-12"
Blooms:  2-3" across, bright yellow, 10-20 petals, hairy bracts, sunflower-like/daisy-like, mid-Fall
Foliage:  Herbaceous, deciduous, deep green, elongated, coarse, pointed tips
Soil:  Not picky, moist, mildly acidic, neutral, mildly alkaline, mass
Water:  Regular
Uses:  Back of mixed perennial border, wild flower garden, butterfly garden, bee garden, bird garden, coastal gardening,
Propagation:  Seeds, rootball divisions
Caution:  Plant can be invasive

Comments:  Helianthus angustifolius or Narrow-leaved Sunflower or Swamp Sunflower or Helianthus angustifolia is a perennial with an upright, airy, open growth habit.  It is a native of eastern United State and belongs to the Aster family.  In late Summer or early Fall, Helianthus angustifolius prolifically produces showy bright yellow daisy-like or sunflower-like flowers, followed later by seeds.  Butterflies and bees are magnetized by the nectar-rich flowers while birds enjoy feasting on the seeds in Winter.  Swamp Sunflower has deep green, coarse, narrow, hairy leaves borne on interesting maroon stem.  Helianthus angustifolia is easily propagated from seeds or rootball divisions.  It is not picky about soil types but best in moist, acidic to alkaline soil in a sunny environment.  Swamp Sunflower is deer resistant.  It is low maintenance and thrives well in water-logged soils.  Helianthus angustifolia is salt tolerant hence is excellent for coastal gardening.  Mass plant Narrow-leafed Sunflower in the back of the mixed perennial bed for a spectacular visual display.  Helianthus angustifolius is a self-seeder so deadhead to avoid having volunteer plants next season.  Trim in June for a bushier growth.  Swamp Sunflower is a very easy perennial, growing quietly until Fall when it explodes with eye-catching sunny blooms.  Deers would not go near it.  Its tall stature makes a statement in the Fall garden.  The sight is most welcoming at a time when most perennials have been frozen to ground level.  Helianthus angustifolius is threatened in the state of New York and Illinois.  This carefree, strong growing perennial is happily blooming away in Jenny's zone 6b/7 Fall Garden.

USDA Zones:  6-9

JennysGarden.com...Plant images and gardening descriptions of Helianthus angustifolius  (Narrow-leaved Sunflower, Swamp Sunflower, Helianthus angustifolia) growing in Jenny's Garden

Image of butterfly and bird attractor, Helianthus angustifolius or Narrow-leaved Sunflower or Swamp Sunflower or Helianthus angustifolia

Seeds/plant availability:  jen@JennysGarden.com