Willow-Leaved Sunflower (Helianthus Salicifolius ‘First Light’)

Willow-Leaved Sunflower

Features and Characteristics

Helianthus salicifolius , commonly called willow-leaved sunflower, is a Missouri native plant that occurs in unglaciated western Missouri prairie areas south of the Missouri River. Features clusters (branched panicles) of 2-5″ wide sunflowers with bright yellow rays and dark brown center disks atop rigid, whitish-green stems typically growing 5-6′ (less frequently to 8′) tall. Narrow, drooping, willow-like, pale green leaves (5-7″). Attractive to butterflies and other insect pollinators. Blooms from late summer to fall. Good fresh cut flower.

Genus name comes from the Greek words helios meaning sun and anthos meaning flower.

Specific epithet means with leaves like Salix (willow).

‘First Light’ produces a clump of foliage to 44” tall. Foliage is covered in fall (September–October) with a profuse bloom of 5-3” diameter sunflowers with golden yellow rays and brown center disks. Narrow, hairy, linear leaves (to 4” long). Parents of this patented cultivar are unpatented H. salicifolia cultivars ‘Golden Pyramid’ and ‘Autumn Glory’. An introduction of Blooms of Bressingham. U.S. Plant Patent #13,150 issued October 29, 200

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerant of wide range of soil conditions. If grown in part shade, plants tend to be taller and more open, produce fewer flowers and require support. Spreads over time by creeping rhizomes to form dense colonies. Divide every 3-4 years to control spread and maintain vigor.

‘First Light’ is best planted in a sheltered location in the St. Louis area where it may not be reliably winter hardy. Any seeds produced by this cultivar will reportedly be sterile.

Willow-Leaved Sunflower (Helianthus Salicifolius ‘First Light’) Requirements

Hardiness zone	6 - 9
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

Sunflowers are generally susceptible to rust, leaf fungal spots and powdery mildew. Caterpillars and beetles may chew on the foliage. Watch for aphids. Taller plants may need staking. Deer tend to avoid this plant.

Uses

Attractive foliage and profuse late summer to fall bloom make this an excellent addition to the border background, wild or native plant garden, or naturalized planting.

Willow-Leaved Sunflower (Helianthus Salicifolius ‘First Light’) Details

Common name	Willow-Leaved Sunflower
Botanical name	Helianthus Salicifolius 'First Light'
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Asteraceae
Hardiness zone	6 - 9
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Yellow Rays With Brown Center Disk
Flowering period	September - Oc- Ber
Height	3 - 4 Ft.
Width	3 - 4 Ft.