Helianthus divaricatus is a tough clump forming sunflower species with stiff stems and rough sandpapery leaves. Blooming in mid to late summer, it produces bright yellow daisy like flowers that attract a wide range of pollinators. Unlike many sunflowers, it thrives without staking and spreads slowly by rhizomes forming open colonies. Its foliage turns a rich gold in fall and its wiry stems hold up well through winter offering structural interest and wildlife shelter.
Height & Spread: 3 - 5 ft x 2 - 3 ft
Bloom Time: July to September
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Dry to average, well drained soils
Watering Needs: Low; very drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant due to rough foliage
Native Status
This species is native to eastern and central North America, where it grows naturally in open woods, glades, and dry meadows.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Visited by nectaring species such as Monarch, Painted Lady, and Silver Spotted Skipper during late summer.
Bees
- Highly attractive to native long tongued bees, sweat bees, bumblebees, and specialized sunflower bees including Melissodes species.
Moths
- Larval host plant for species such as Wavy Lined Emerald and other looper moths that feed on the foliage.
Birds
- Goldfinches and other seed eating songbirds feed on the seeds in late summer and fall especially if seed heads are left standing.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for clump expansion and airflow between upright stems.
Landscape Placement:
- Best used in naturalistic borders, meadow plantings, or open woodland edges where its sturdy habit and bright blooms add height and seasonal color.
Companion Plants
- Allium cernuum (Nodding Onion) - Adds arching seed heads and pink summer flowers that contrast with Helianthus's bold yellow blooms.
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Offers lavender blooms and aromatic foliage that attract pollinators through summer.
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Provides a central bloom period and similar height for sunny native borders.
- Liatris spicata (Blazing Star) - Contributes upright purple spikes and late summer color that blends well with sunflowers.
- Symphyotrichum novae-angliae (New England Aster) - Extends bloom season with deep purple flowers that complement golden Helianthus blooms.