Helianthus angustifolius aka Swamp Sunflower

Taxonomy

Helianthus angustifolius, also known as narrowleaf sun or swamp sunflower, is a species of sunflower native to the south-central and eastern United States. It can be found in coastal states from Texas to Long Island, as well as inland areas like Missouri. This clump-forming herbaceous perennial can reach heights of up to 5 feet and has long, narrow leaves. It is often cultivated for its bright, showy yellow flowers, with each plant producing multiple flower heads. The yellow daisy flowers feature purple-red or yellow disks and bloom in late summer and autumn. In cultivation, narrowleaf sunflowers prefer direct light and regular watering, thriving best when placed less than 1 foot from a window. They require well-draining soil and do not typically need additional fertilizers if repotted each time they double in size. As a member of the Helianthus genus, this plant is native to the United States.

Common names

Swamp Sunflower, Narrow Leaf Sunflower, Narrow Leaved Sunflower

How to care for Swamp Sunflower

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Swamp Sunflower is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Swamp Sunflower should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Swamp Sunflower loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Swamp Sunflower requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Swamp Sunflower will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Swamp Sunflower is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Humidity

The Swamp Sunflower does not demand additional humidity levels. Water is mostly absorbed by the roots of plants, rather than their leaves, and the best way to provide humidity to your plants is through watering the soil.

Fertilizer

Once the Swamp Sunflower has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

Swamp Sunflower’s native range is the Americas.


More info:
Wikipedia