perennialN. America Native

Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower

Helianthus bolanderi

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

California, Oregon

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Bolander's sunflower is an annual wildflower native to California and Oregon. It features hairy, branching stems and classic yellow, daisy-like flower heads with dark central disks. This species is notable for being a native wildflower in the western US, often thriving in dry, disturbed soils and attracting a variety of pollinators.

Uses & Benefits:

Helianthus bolanderi adds vibrant yellow color to native and wildflower gardens, attracting pollinators and providing visual interest.

Its robust roots help stabilize soil on slopes and prevent erosion.

Supports native bee and butterfly populations, contributing to local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
Tuck seeds 1 inch deep in soil after the last frost date, spacing 12-18 inches apart.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Water consistently during dry periods, especially in the first growing season.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during active growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant Helianthus bolanderi in full sun for optimal growth and flower production.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season
Provide support for tall stems in windy areas
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to prevent legginess
Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Avoid planting in shady locations

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Harvest
Plant
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Wildflower meadow with tall, vibrant stemsBright border with native plantsErosion control on slopes

Companion Plants

Amorpha canescens Echinacea purpurea Rudbeckia hirta Little bluestem grass Asclepias tuberosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower questions

What zones can Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower grow in?

Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower bloom?

Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower typically blooms in summer to fall through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower need full sun?

Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.