Oregon Sunshine

Oregon Sunshine, also known as Woolly Sunflower, is a tough and charismatic native of western North America. It thrives in dry, well-drained soils - especially rocky slopes, grasslands, and open woodlands - where it forms low mounds of striking silver-gray, hairy foliage. This felted texture helps reduce water loss and reflects intense sun, making it well-suited to xeric and fire-adapted plantings.

In late spring to midsummer, bright golden-yellow, daisy-like flowers appear in abundance, typically held upright above the foliage on 1 to 2 foot stems. These blooms provide a vital nectar source for native bees, including small sweat bees and bumblebees, as well as butterflies like the Checkerspot. It’s also a larval host plant for some moth species.

Gardeners prize Oregon Sunshine not only for its bold color and drought resistance, but for its long bloom time and ability to thrive with minimal care. It performs well in borders, dry meadows, pollinator strips, and native restoration projects alike.

• Requires well-drained soil; avoid overly rich or wet conditions.
• Best in full sun with minimal water once established.
• Deadhead to encourage prolonged blooming or allow to self-seed naturally.
• Cut back spent growth in early spring to refresh the plant.
• Excellent candidate for gravel gardens and fire-wise landscapes.