Helianthus decapetalus

Helianthus decapetalus

$14.95

Helianthus decapetalus is a native perennial sunflower with tall upright stems, bright yellow daisy like flowers, and deep green foliage that brings late summer color to naturalistic plantings. Its graceful branching habit creates a long season display while providing an important nectar source for pollinators and seasonal interest in native landscapes.

Height & Spread: 3 - 5 ft x 2 - 3 ft

Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall

Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade

Soil Preference: Average to moist well drained soil

Watering Needs: Moderate; adaptable once established

Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant

Native Status

This species is native to eastern and central North America where it naturally occurs in woodland edges, meadows, and open areas. It is valued in native gardens for its adaptability, late season blooms, and support of local wildlife.

WILDLIFE & INSECTS

Bees

  • Attracts native bees, bumblebees, and honeybees which gather nectar and pollen from the abundant late season flowers.

Butterflies

  • Provides a valuable nectar source for Swallowtails, Painted Ladies, and other butterflies during the late summer bloom period.

Birds

  • Produces seeds that can provide seasonal food for songbirds after flowering and extend wildlife value into fall.

Spacing & Landscape Use

Spacing Recommendations

  • Space 24 - 36 in apart to accommodate its upright branching habit and allow airflow between plants.

Landscape Placement

  • Well suited for native gardens, sunny borders, meadow plantings, and woodland edges where its tall golden flowers provide late season color and movement.

Companion Plants

  • Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds fine textured grass structure and warm fall color around the tall sunflower stems.
  • Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Provides complementary summer blooms and attracts a wide range of pollinators.
  • Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Adds lavender blooms and supports additional pollinator activity in similar conditions.
  • Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass) - Creates vertical structure and seasonal interest while pairing well with native prairie style plantings.
  • Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' (Goldenrod) - Extends the late season display with golden flowers that complement the sunflower blooms.

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