Sawtooth Sunflower

(Helianthus grosseserratus)

Sawtooth Sunflower (Helianthus grosseserratus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Helianthus grosseserratus, commonly known as Sawtooth Sunflower, is a perennial herb native to moist prairies, riverbanks, and wet meadows in the central and eastern United States. It can reach a height of 3–12 feet (91–366 cm) and is characterized by its large, serrated leaves and bright golden-yellow flowers. The flowering season extends from late summer to autumn, with each flower head measuring 3 to 4 inches (7–10 cm) across, featuring 10-20 yellow ray florets that are about 1.5 inches (3.81 cm) long. The fruit is an achene, which is favored by various wildlife.

Sawtooth Sunflower is valued for its height and vibrant blooms that attract pollinators, making it a popular choice for naturalistic plantings and wildlife gardens. It is also used for soil stabilization along waterways. This sunflower thrives in full sun and requires moist, fertile loamy soil rich in organic matter. It is adaptable to a range of drainage conditions from fast to slow. While generally low-maintenance, it can spread aggressively via rhizomes, potentially becoming invasive in garden settings. To control its spread, gardeners may need to implement root barriers or regularly divide the plants.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 5-10 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to moist prairies, riverbanks, and wet meadows in the central and eastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Thick-Tooth Sunflower, Thick-Toothed Sunflower, Hélianthe À Grosses Dents, Tandsolros

Scientific Names: , Helianthus grosseserratus, Helianthus grosseserratus subsp. maximus, Helianthus grosseserratus subsp. grosseserratus, Helianthus instabilis, Helianthus grosseserratus f. pleniflorus, Helianthus grosseserratus var. hypoleucus, Helianthus grosseserratus f. grosseserratus, Helianthus grosseserratus var. grosseserratus,

GBIF Accepted Name: Helianthus grosseserratus M.Martens