Helianthus decapetalus, commonly known as Ten-Petal Sunflower, is a native perennial wildflower found in moist woodlands, streambanks, and open meadows throughout Illinois. It thrives in rich, well-drained soils and prefers partial shade to dappled sunlight.
This sunflower species grows 3 to 5 feet tall and features bright yellow, daisy-like flowers with 8 to 12 petals surrounding a central yellow disk. Blooming from mid to late summer, Helianthus decapetalus attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and beetles. Its seeds provide a valuable food source for birds, particularly finches.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Helianthus decapetalus is an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and naturalized landscapes. Its tall, slender stems and spreading rhizomes make it well-suited for erosion control along streambanks and woodland edges. While it can spread readily, it pairs well with other native perennials like Goldenrods, Asters, and Joe-Pye Weed in diverse plantings.
Helianthus decapetalus, commonly known as Ten-Petal Sunflower, is a native perennial wildflower found in moist woodlands, streambanks, and open meadows throughout Illinois. It thrives in rich, well-drained soils and prefers partial shade to dappled sunlight.
This sunflower species grows 3 to 5 feet tall and features bright yellow, daisy-like flowers with 8 to 12 petals surrounding a central yellow disk. Blooming from mid to late summer, Helianthus decapetalus attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and beetles. Its seeds provide a valuable food source for birds, particularly finches.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Helianthus decapetalus is an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and naturalized landscapes. Its tall, slender stems and spreading rhizomes make it well-suited for erosion control along streambanks and woodland edges. While it can spread readily, it pairs well with other native perennials like Goldenrods, Asters, and Joe-Pye Weed in diverse plantings.
Bloom: mid-summer to early fall
Habitats: meadows; open woodlands; partially shaded areas along rivers; savannas; thickets; woodland borders
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to mesic
Plant type (height): forb (3 to 5 feet)
Requirements: partial sun to dappled sunlight
Soil: rich loamy soil
