Wikimedia Commons
Asteraceae
Dune Sunflower
Helianthus debilis
Joy and coastal resilience.
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Genus
- Helianthus
- Native to
- Southeastern United States, Gulf Coast
- Bloom season
- Spring, Summer, Fall
- Type
- perennial herb
- Height
- 1-4 ft
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil
- sandy, well-drained
- Water
- low
- Hardiness
- 8-11
- Lifespan
- perennial
Did you know
- Dune sunflower is one of the most salt-tolerant sunflower species and thrives right behind coastal dunes.
- The species name 'debilis' means weak, referring to its slender, sprawling stems, though the plant itself is remarkably tough.
- It spreads rapidly by stolons, with a single plant capable of covering a 20-foot area in one growing season.
- Dune sunflower is a critical pioneer species that helps stabilize beaches after hurricanes and storm surge events.
- The cheerful flowers attract painted lady butterflies, which use the plant as both a nectar source and larval host.
Color meanings
0
adoration
1
cheerfulness