indiana native plant of the month - august

Bringing up a flower to incorporate one of the our favorite fall colors before the sweltering summer heat leaves us for the year is the famous…

woodland sunflower (Helianthus divaricatus)

Woodland sunflower is a striking golden yellow flower growing primarily in rocky/sandy woodlands or dry exposed sites. this is a wonderful flower to use as a late summer pollinator in your garden.

identifying woodland sunflowers

Woodland sunflower has a few key identifying traits such as:

• Opposite leaves with a hairy underside

• 3’-7’ tall plant

• Golden yellow flowers

Fun fact: sunflower etymology

Woodland sunflower’s scientific name comes from the Greek words “helios” (sun) and “anthos” (flower).