Pale-Leaved Woodland Sunflower

(Helianthus strumosus)

Pale-Leaved Woodland Sunflower (Helianthus strumosus)

Quinten Wiegersma

CC BY 4.0

Image By: Quinten Wiegersma

Recorded By:

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Helianthus strumosus, commonly known as Pale-Leaved Woodland Sunflower, is a deciduous perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, forest edges, and meadows in the Eastern United States. It typically grows from three to eight feet in height and features a rhizomatous root system. The plant is characterized by its petioles, which are about an inch in length, and its leaves, which are thick, narrow, and white underneath, distinguishing it from other sunflower species. The smooth stem of H. strumosus sets it apart as well. It produces flower heads with a yellow center and a variable number of yellow ray florets, usually between 8 and 20, which bloom from late summer to early fall. The flowers are moderately showy and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

The Pale-Leaved Woodland Sunflower is valued for its adaptability to shaded conditions, making it suitable for woodland gardens and naturalized areas. It is also used in border plantings and as a cut flower due to its attractive blooms. This sunflower thrives in part shade to full shade, preferring medium to high moisture levels and well-drained soils. While it is not known for major diseases or pests, it can spread aggressively via rhizomes, which should be considered when planting in smaller spaces.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Herb
Height: 0.5-1 feet
Width: 1-2 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: Yellow
Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Medium, High
Drainage: Medium

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 open woodlands, forest edges, and meadows in the Eastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Pale-Leaf Sunflower , Pale-Leaved Sunflower , Woodland Sunflower , Kropfige Sonnenblume , Hélianthe Scrofuleux , Hélianthe Strumosus , Strävsolros

Scientific Names: Helianthus strumosus , Helianthus neglectus , Helianthus strumosus var. willdenowianus , Helianthus macrophyllus , Helianthus decapitatus , Helianthus strumosus var. mollis , Helianthus floribundus , Helianthus australis , Helianthus saxicola , Helianthus altissimus

GBIF Accepted Name: Helianthus strumosus L.