Pale-leaf Woodland Sunflower
helianthus strumosus
Also known as: ["Woodland Sunflower","Pale-leaved Sunflower"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, known for its bright yellow flowers and woodland habitat preference.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Helianthus |
| Botanical Name: | Helianthus strumosus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open field
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, otherwise focus on selective trimming.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted, avoid overwatering, amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but may become dormant below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes, protect from frost, ensure good air flow in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone (optional), plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or dome.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, avoid fertilizing for a month.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot with drainage, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain away, water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture and improve structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts, leaves may turn yellow or brown, plant may enter dormancy.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, apply a thick layer of mulch to insulate roots, protect from drafts and frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; growth may become stunted.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, use mulch to retain soil moisture, improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage, use diluted fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHelianthus strumosus is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would adversely affect feline health upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicHelianthus strumosus is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases or scientific evidence suggesting that this species poses a risk to canine health when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicHelianthus strumosus, commonly known as the pale-leaved sunflower, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Helianthus strumosus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How much maintenance does it require?
A: It requires moderate maintenance, suitable for beginners and outdoor landscaping.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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