First Light willow-leaved sunflower
Helianthus salicifolius 'First Light'
USDA zones6 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size3 to 4 feet tall3 to 4 feet wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Erect
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Yellow rays with brown center disk
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
'First Light' willow-leaved sunflower (Helianthus salicifolius 'First Light') is a perennial for borders, cut flowers, pollinator gardens, and meadows. It is hardy to USDA zone 6, or down to -10°F (-23°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist soil of most types. It grows 36 to 48 inches tall and wide with an erect habit. Yellow flowers with brown centers attract butterflies, bees, and birds. Deer tend to browse other plants first.
Pairs well with Joe Pye weed, Indian grass, and Gaura.