downy sunflower

Botanical Name: Helianthus mollis
Plant Family: Aster (Asteraceae)

Description: A 2-6 ft. perennial topped with 15-25 yellow 2-inch flowers. Leaves and stems are covered with rough hairs. Leaves are opposite and sharply toothed.

Growing Conditions: Can grow in full sun to part shade in rich moist soils.

Bloom Time: June through September
Bloom Color: Yellow

Benefit to pollinators/wildlife: Special value to native bees.

Native Status: Native to the US, but not to PA.

Location in habitat: Pollinator Demonstration Garden