Helianthus divaricatus (Native)

This sunflower produces a profusion of 2 inch across yellow flowers that are attractive to many species. This plant is deer resistant, relatively pest and disease free, and can be divided every few years. Common in the mountains; frequent in the piedmont; infrequent in the coastal plain.

Wildlife value: This is a larval host plant that supports Silvery Checkerspot. The flowers are attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. Its seeds are favored by songbirds, ruffed grouse, quail, mourning doves, and small mammals. Leave standing dead flowers into the winter as natural bird feeders. Members of the genus Helianthus support the specialized bees