Western Sunflower is a great plant for attracting wildlife--especially bees, butterflies, and birds. In prairies or meadows, it helps create uneven heights; this is beneficial to ground-nesting birds that will also feed on the nutritious seeds. It can grow in very dry conditions in poor soil. Branching roots and spreading rhizomes make it a good soil holder in full sun.
Uses: Erosion control, wildlife, cut flowers, pollinators
Bloom time: July & August
Height: 30 to 40 inches
Space: 12 to 20 inches
Sun: Full sun
Moisture: Dry to average
Seed: Sow seed outdoors November through January or cold-moist stratify at least four weeks
- ~200 seeds per packet
- 14,000 seeds per ounce
- 1 oz. per 400 square feet