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Native Plant Gallery

Swamp Sunflower

Swamp Sunflower

Swamp Sunflower by Eric Hunt, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia

Helianthus angustifolius
Family: Asteraceae (Aster Family)

Swamp Sunflower (Helianthus angustifolius) is a tall, fall-blooming perennial native to wetlands, coastal prairies, and moist woodlands in Southeast Texas. With its bright yellow flowers and narrow leaves, this sunflower provides a spectacular burst of color in late summer and fall. It is a valuable plant for pollinators and is well-suited for rain gardens, naturalized landscapes, and restoration projects.

  • Scientific Name: Helianthus angustifolius
  • Common Names: Swamp Sunflower, Narrowleaf Sunflower
  • Family: Asteraceae (Aster Family)
  • Growth Habit: Upright perennial
  • Height: 4-8 feet
  • Leaves: Narrow, lance-shaped, dark green
  • Flowers: Bright yellow, daisy-like flowers with dark brown centers
  • Bloom Time: September – November in Southeast Texas
  • Wildlife Benefits: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators; seeds provide food for birds

Habitat & Range in Southeast Texas

Swamp Sunflower thrives in moist to wet soils and is commonly found in:

  • Coastal Prairies: Naturally occurring in low-lying areas
  • Wetlands & Marshes: Prefers seasonally flooded or moist soils
  • Roadsides & Open Woodlands: Found in disturbed areas with adequate moisture

While it prefers damp conditions, it can tolerate occasional drought once established.

Ecological Importance

  • Pollinator Support: A crucial late-season nectar source for bees and butterflies
  • Bird-Friendly: Seeds are an important food source for finches and other seed-eating birds
  • Erosion Control: Helps stabilize soil in wetland and riparian environments

Landscaping & Gardening Uses

Swamp Sunflower is an excellent choice for native gardens due to its brilliant fall color and adaptability.

Planting & Care

  • Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
  • Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate a range of conditions
  • Water Needs: Moderate to high; thrives in rain gardens and wet areas
  • Maintenance: Cut back in late winter to promote new growth; may need staking in windy locations
  • Companion Plants: Pairs well with Gulf Coast Muhly (Muhlenbergia capillaris), Blue Mistflower (Conoclinium coelestinum), and Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

Fun Facts

  • Swamp Sunflower can form large colonies, creating striking golden displays in the fall.
  • Despite its name, it can tolerate drier conditions once established.
  • It is a favorite nectar source for migrating monarch butterflies.

Conservation & Native Plant Advocacy

As native wetland and prairie habitats decline, Swamp Sunflower plays an important role in supporting pollinators and restoring biodiversity. Adding it to home landscapes and restoration projects helps preserve Texas’s natural ecosystems.

Where to Find It

  • Interested in adding Swamp Sunflower to your garden? Check if this is in stock or add to cart to purchase directly from our Natives Nursery.

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