Back to Glossary
Western Sunflower
Helianthus occidentalis
Western Sunflower is a sun-loving species that stands about 3 to 4 feet tall and features multiple branched stems topped with daisy-like blooms, each with a dark chocolate center surrounded by golden petals. It’s particularly attractive to pollinators, including bees and butterflies, and its seeds are favored by finches and other seed-eating birds in the autumn, providing both a food source and an opportunity for bird watching in your garden.
Details
Height24” - 36”
Spread12"
Bloom SeasonJuly – August
Soil Types
Loam
Sand
Soil Moisture
Dry
Medium
Sun Exposure
Full Sun
Range Map
Available
Not available
Ecological Benefits
Maintenance Tips
- Drought-resistant once established, though occasional watering helps during extreme dry spells.
- Deadhead to encourage continued blooming and to prevent excessive self-seeding.
- Divide clumps if necessary in the spring every 2-3 years to promote healthy growth and manage spreading.



