Description
Product Description
Helianthus angustifolius (Swamp Sunflower / Narrowleaf Sunflower) is a late-season native perennial that explodes with masses of bright golden daisies from late summer into frost—just when gardens need color most. Tall, upright clumps carry narrow, willow-like leaves that stay cleaner than many sunflowers, while the long bloom window fuels bees, butterflies, and migrating pollinators. Thrives in full sun and moist to average soils (excellent for rain-garden shoulders and wet meadows), yet adapts to typical borders with regular water. Dramatic, reliable, and easy.
Quick-Glance Specs
| Attribute | Details |
| Botanical Name | Helianthus angustifolius |
| Common Name | Swamp Sunflower; Narrowleaf Sunflower |
| Plant Type | Native perennial wildflower |
| Native/Non-native | Native to North America |
| Hardiness Zone | 5–9 |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (light part sun tolerated; heaviest bloom in sun) |
| Moisture | Moist to average; tolerates periodic wet; appreciates even moisture |
| Mature Height | 4–7 ft (site dependent) |
| Mature Spread | 2–4 ft clump |
| Growth Habit | Upright, branching clumps; fibrous roots |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
| Fragrance | None |
| Bloom Time | Late summer to frost |
| Flower Color | Bright golden yellow (dark centers) |
| Seasonal Interest | Long, late bloom; seeds for birds in fall/winter |
| Foliage & Features | Narrow, willow-like leaves; tidy vertical presence |
| Landscape Features | Pollinator magnet; late nectar; great cut flower |
| Landscape Uses | Borders, meadows, cottage/native plantings, rain-garden shoulders |
| Soil | Average to rich loam or clay-loam; clay tolerant with moisture |
| Water Needs | Medium (consistent moisture best; not drought-loving) |
| Maintenance | Low–medium; pinch/shear in early summer for compact habit |
| Deer/Pest Resistance | Moderate—young growth may be browsed; generally resilient |
| Container Friendly | Best in very large containers with regular water |
| Recommended Spacing | 18–30″ on center |
Care & Growing Information
- Site & Light: Choose full sun for stout stems and the heaviest bloom.
- Soil & Water: Performs in moist to average soils; excellent on clay-loam with consistent moisture. Avoid prolonged drought for best display.
- Pinching/Height Control: For bushier plants and reduced staking, pinch or shear by ~⅓ once (before mid-July).
- Planting: Space 18–30″ to ensure airflow; mulch to conserve moisture (keep mulch off crowns).
- Maintenance: Deadhead for tidiness or leave seed heads for birds. Cut back in late fall or late winter/early spring.
Key Features
- Late-season gold from late summer to frost
- Strong pollinator draw and seed for birds
- Clay tolerant with steady moisture; excellent for rain-garden shoulders
- Reliable height and great cut flowers
- Responds well to pinching for a compact, floriferous habit
Problems
- Flopping may occur in shade or overly rich soils—provide sun, moderate fertility, and consider a spring pinch. Occasional leaf spot in stagnant humidity—ensure spacing. Deer/rabbits may sample tender shoots; protect new plantings if pressure is high.
Uses in the Landscape
- Back-of-border color with ornamental grasses and fall perennials
- Meadows/prairie plantings and pollinator habitats
- Rain-garden shoulders and moisture-retentive edges
- Naturalized drifts for big, seasonal impact
Availability / Ordering
- Sizes Offered: #1 Gallon, 4″, DP-50 Plug
- Recommended Spacing: 18–30″ for cohesive drifts and airflow.
Why You’ll Love It
- A late-season powerhouse that lights up the garden and feeds wildlife
- Easy, adaptable, and responsive to a simple early-summer pinch
- Weeks of bold color with minimal input
Quick Highlights
A tall, native perennial with masses of golden daisies to frost—Helianthus angustifolius powers borders, meadows, and rain-garden shoulders with pollinator action and reliable late color
