Plants in genus helianthus
Helianthus atrorubens
Helianthus atrorubens, or purpledisc sunflower, is a native perennial of the southeastern United States. It grows up to 6.5 feet tall and produces yellow daisy-like flowers with purple centers. This sunflower blooms in late summer and fall, thriving in mixed woods and along roadsides.
Helianthus verticillatus
Helianthus verticillatus, known as the giant whorled sunflower, is a rare plant rediscovered in 1994 and a candidate for the Endangered Species list. It is found in Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee, thriving in moist, alkaline prairie settings. This sunflower grows in clumps of 10-12 foot tall stalks with linear leaves, topped with yellow daisies in the fall.
Helianthus annuus 'Drop Dead Red'
Helianthus annuus 'Drop Dead Red' is a stunning sunflower variety with large, long-lasting flowers in several shades of red. This pollenless hybrid is drought-tolerant and ideal for the back of a garden or border. Its edible petals and buds add an interesting culinary aspect, while regular watering ensures the best flower production.
Helianthus salicifolius
Helianthus salicifolius, native to the central United States, is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 8 feet tall. It features long, narrow leaves and produces bright yellow flowers with red disc florets in late summer and early fall. This plant adds an airy vertical accent to gardens and is well-suited for sunny locations.
Helianthus annuus
Helianthus annuus, commonly known as the sunflower, is a tall, multi-branching plant with bright yellow puffball blossoms. It produces many 3-5 inch flowers and is edible, with petals that add color to salads and desserts. This drought-tolerant plant attracts pollinators and blooms until fall.
Helianthus 'Tuscan Sun'
Helianthus 'Tuscan Sun' is a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant with bright yellow daisy-like blooms that provide continuous color throughout the season. This American native attracts butterflies and bees, thrives in poor soil, and is resistant to deer and rabbits.
Helianthus annuus 'Suncatcher'
Helianthus annuus 'Suncatcher' is a compact, multi-branched sunflower that blooms from July until frost. It is pollinator-friendly and thrives in full sun and partial shade with enriched, well-drained soil. Regular deadheading is recommended to encourage continuous blooming.
Helianthus angustifolius 'Low Down'
Helianthus angustifolius 'Low Down' is a dwarf variety of swamp sunflower, reduced in height from 8 feet to just 1 foot. This plant forms a 20-inch wide clump in October and produces large yellow blossoms. It is deer-resistant and thrives in full sun, making it a great choice for gardens in USDA zones 5-9. Its compact size and vibrant blooms make it a popular choice for adding color to fall gardens.
Helianthus salicifolius 'Autumn Gold'
Helianthus salicifolius 'Autumn Gold' is a compact perennial with brilliant gold flowers that bloom from late summer to fall. It grows to 2 feet in height and width, with long, narrow dark green leaves. This bird-friendly plant is drought tolerant once established and thrives in full sun with very well-drained soil.
Helianthus multiflorus 'Capenoch Star'
Helianthus multiflorus 'Capenoch Star' is a hybrid sunflower that grows to a height of 5-6 feet. It produces bright yellow flowers, each about 3 inches in diameter, from August to October. This plant is popular in the cut flower industry due to its long flowering time and vibrant blooms. It is also known for attracting butterflies.
Helianthus angustifolius 'First Light'
Helianthus angustifolius 'First Light' is a compact perennial sunflower that grows up to 4 feet tall. It is characterized by its fuzzy linear leaves and bright yellow-orange daisy-like flowers that bloom from late September through October. This plant is deer-resistant and attracts butterflies, making it a valuable addition to wildlife gardens. Its vibrant fall blooms and ability to thrive in various conditions make it a popular choice for gardeners seeking late-season color.
Helianthus 'Lemon Queen'
Helianthus 'Lemon Queen' is a hybrid sunflower that grows 6 to 8 feet tall, featuring soft lemon-yellow flowers that are 2 inches wide. It blooms in July and August and is tolerant of both moist and very dry soils. This clumping sunflower is ideal for the back of borders and attracts butterflies and other pollinators.
Helianthus simulans 'Matanzas Creek'
Helianthus simulans 'Matanzas Creek' is a native US plant with light lemon yellow flowers. It grows to 8 feet tall and spreads to form a 6-foot wide colony in 5 years. This plant blooms in mid-October and is a favorite among pollinators, adding height and color to gardens.