Selected from a wild form of perennial sunflower from Illinois, the pale leaf woodland sunflower can grow in a variety of soils and climates. Its thick clusters of flowers, seed production as well as its long stringy roots make it a useful sunflower for pollinators, browse for deer as well as a good "resource capture" plant.
Although the root is edible, it is not desirable to consume as it is too fibrous to eat. The roots form a wide spreading lattice which makes it possible for it to grow in thick grass or other areas with heavy competition of other plants.
| Plant Specs |
| Genus & Species |
Helianthus strummosus |
| Seed Source |
Illinois -Wild seed selection not hybridized |
| Hardiness |
-30 F or more |
| Height (ft) |
8-10 ft. tall |
| Width (ft) |
5-10 ft. |
| Pollination Requirements |
Plant the Michigan version of this selection to improve seed set. |
| Climate |
Zone 3-9 needs cold dormancy to sprout in the spring for warm climates |
| Ease of Cultivation |
Incredibly easy to establish and will spread out slowly and form a lattice type structure of roots. Good flowering and attractive as an ornamental plant. |
