This native perennial species occurs in swamps and moist places from New York to northern Florida and west to southern Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. It was first introduced to Britain in 1799. It is related to Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberose), which bears edible subterranean, potato-like tubers that were eaten by the American Indians and commonly grown in early American kitchen gardens including Monticello's Vegetable Garden. Swamp sunflower, with its bushy habit and spectacular, show-stopping floral display, is very desirable in the mixed flower border.
This hardy North American perennial with dark green, strap-like foliage grows to 5 feet high, spreads to 4 feet wide, and produces a multitudes of yellow daisy-like flowers cover the plant in late summer and fall. Prefers full sun to light shade and moist garden loam.
Visit Monticello’s Online Shop to check for seeds or plants of Swamp Sunflower.
Typical Blooming Dates: July-November
Blossom Color(s): Brown flowers with specialized yellow leaf-petals
Location at Monticello: Vegetable Garden
