Helianthus divaricatus – Woodland Sunflower (B&B.DR.DRG.H.NB.OP.RR)

Ecosystem Services:
(B)-Birds                                             (B&B)-Birds & Butterflies

(BTF)-Butterflies                             (BW)-Black Walnut Resistant

(DR)-Deer Resistant                      (DRGHT)-Drought Resistant

(EC)-Erosion Control                    (EVR)-Evergreen

(FC)-Fall Color                                 (FRG)-Fragrant

(GRD)-Groundcover                      (H)-Host plant

(HMR)-Hummingbirds                (M)-Mammals

(MTH)-Moths                                   (N)-Nectar

(NB)-Native Bees                            (NST)-Nesting Material

(OP)-Other pollinators                 (RR)-Rabbit Resistant

(SHWY)-Showy                                (SPC)-Specimen Plant

Woodland Sunflower, is a native herbaceous perennial in the aster family that can grow 5 to 7 feet tall. It is native to eastern and central North America and is found in all areas of NC in rocky or sandy woodlands and dry open sites. The leaves are opposite with a smooth to slightly toothed margin and hairy underside. The leaves often have no stem. Large, yellow flowers first mature in early summer and continue into early fall.

Woodland Sunflower is easy to grow in average well-drained soils in partial shade. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types. Use in the native/pollinator garden, naturalized area or woodland garden. It is drought tolerant once established. It is a high-value wildlife plant.

Host plant for Silvery Checkerspot.

Flowers are attractive to butterflies, specialized bees and other pollinators.

Seeds are favored by songbirds, ruffed grouse, quail, morning doves and small mammals.

Leave standing dead flowers into the winter as natural bird feeders.