Helianthus angustifolius (Narrowleaf Sunflower) Seed Packet

Narrowleaf sunflower, also called swamp sunflower, is a species that thrives in wet habitats such as marshes, swamps, wet meadows, and roadside ditches, where it can form dense stands. This tall, vigorous plant can reach heights of 5 to 8 feet, with slender, lance-shaped leaves on long stalks.

This sunflower releases a profusion of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in late summer to fall. Each flower head consists of golden-yellow ray florets encircling a darker brown to purple central disk, providing a vibrant flash of color when most summer blooms have winded down. It serves as an important late-season nectar source for pollinators, including many native bees, moths and butterflies. Additionally, its abundant seeds provide a valuable food source for birds, particularly finches.

Due to its adaptability, it can tolerate a range of soil types, though it prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun. It is drought-tolerant once established and can be used effectively for erosion control in wetland restoration projects.

Helianthus is considered a keystone species for supporting native wildlife, and is a host plant for many species of butterfly and moth. This genus also supports several rare and uncommon pollen specialist bees, which can only feed on the pollen of a select few flowers to survive.