Helianthus angustifolius Plant Identification (Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses)

Family – Asteraceae

Stems:

Leaves:

Adaxial leaf surface.

Abaxial leaf surface.

Inflorescence:

N/A

Involucre:

Ray flowers:

Disk flowers:

Flowering – June – November.

Habitat – Marshes, wet flatwoods, disturbed sites, roadsides, ditches.

Origin – Native to North America.

Other information – This attractive species can be found scattered throughout Alabama and is probably present in every county in the state. The species is normally easy to identify becasue of its thin, alternate leaves and scabrous stems. Plants can grow to +2m tall and are typically much-branched and produce many flowerheads. This species would make a great garden subject and require little care.
The genus name Helianthus derives from the Greek “helio” meaning “sun” and “anth(us)” meaning “flower.”
The species epithet angustifolius derives from the Latin “angust(i)” meaning “narrow” and “foli” meaning “leaf.”

Alabama Distribution:

Photographs taken off Lee Rd 54, Lee County, AL., 10-2-04, and at Fort Benning, GA., 10-10-05.