Swamp Sunflower
Helianthus angustifolius 'First Light'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
This plant is known for its narrow leaves and tall stature, providing a robust presence in the garden. The cultivar 'First Light' offers an earlier bloom time and a denser growth habit compared to other varieties.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil and prepare the bed with compost.
- Tuck seeds into the soil about 1/2 inch deep, spacing 12 inches apart.
- Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist until germination.
- Mist cuttings with water regularly to encourage root development over 6 weeks.
- Stake young plants to support tall stems and prevent damage in windy areas.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in early spring for best growth; ensure full sun exposure for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged stems to promote healthy growth
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t crowd plants; provide adequate space for air circulation
- Refrain from using chemical pesticides unnecessarily
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Swamp Sunflower questions
What zones can Swamp Sunflower grow in?
Swamp Sunflower is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Swamp Sunflower deer resistant?
Yes — Swamp Sunflower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Swamp Sunflower bloom?
Swamp Sunflower typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Swamp Sunflower need full sun?
Swamp Sunflower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Swamp Sunflower drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Swamp Sunflower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Helianthus to compare
Maximilian sunflower
Helianthus maximiliani
Narrow-Leaf Sunflower Low Down
Helianthus angustifolius 'Low Down'
Bolander's Sunflower, Serpentine Sunflower
Helianthus bolanderi
Salicifolius Sunflower Willowleaf Sunflower
Helianthus salicifolius
Table Mountain Sunflower
Helianthus annuus 'Table Mountain'
Common Sunflower
Helianthus annuus
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Grow Swamp Sunflower with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
