Sawtooth Sunflower

Sawtooth Sunflower is a robust perennial that can reach impressive heights of 8 feet or more, making it a standout in any garden setting. It is characterized by its coarse, serrated leaves and sturdy stems that top off with large, showy yellow flowers from late summer into fall. Each flower head is surrounded by prominent, rough-textured green bracts, and the central disk flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds, especially goldfinches who feed on the seeds. This sunflower species is ideal for naturalizing in meadows, borders, or as a background plant in larger garden plots, thriving in full sun and moist, well-drained soils.

• Prefers consistent moisture but is drought-tolerant once established; water regularly in dry conditions.
• Cut back in late winter or early spring to promote vigorous new growth and manage plant size.
• Thrives in rich, moist soils but can adapt to a range of soil conditions, from clay to sandy loam.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
• Monitor for common sunflower pests like aphids and diseases such as mildew; manage promptly to maintain plant health.