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Oregon Sunflower

Balsamorhiza sagittata
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Balsamorhiza sagittata (Oregon Sunflower) — botanical photograph
Pl. DE90 — Balsamorhiza sagittata
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Overview

Oregon Sunflower (Balsamorhiza sagittata) is a perennial forb/herb native to the western United States and parts of Canada, thriving in habitats ranging from Alberta to Wyoming. This plant can be found growing in various regions including Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. Known for its edible roots, leaves, shoots, stems, and seeds, it is particularly suited to light (sandy) or medium-textured soils that are either dry or moist. This sunflower prefers full sun exposure and has a hardiness range of 4-8, making it suitable for gardens within this zone. Oregon Sunflower can grow up to 0.3 meters tall and thrives in soil with a pH level between 6.5 and 8. It is drought-tolerant but will also flourish in moist conditions. This plant can be propagated by seed or division and is ideal for those looking to add a unique, edible element to their garden. Harvest the leaves, roots, seeds, shoots, and stems throughout the growing season for use in various culinary applications. While this plant does not have known medicinal uses, it remains an important part of native ecosystems and can be enjoyed as both an ornamental and edibles source.

Quick answers

What is Oregon Sunflower?

Oregon Sunflower (Balsamorhiza sagittata) is a perennial forb/herb native to the western United States and parts of Canada, thriving in habitats ranging from Alberta to Wyoming.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Oregon Sunflower thrives in full sun and prefers light to medium soil with a pH between 6.5 and 8. It is drought-tolerant but will also grow in moist conditions. This perennial can be propagated by seed or division. Hardy from zones 4-8, it grows up to 0.3 meters tall. Harvest edible parts such as leaves, roots, seeds, shoots, and stems throughout the growing season. Skip hardiness details if specific zone information is not provided for your area.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
Soil pH
6.5–8
For first-time growers

How to grow Oregon Sunflower for the first time

8steps

Start with simple soil preparation and basic care for your Oregon Sunflower.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or seedlings, a trowel, compost, mulch.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost, or in fall before the first freeze.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a well-draining spot with light soil. Amend the soil with compost if needed.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep, or plant seedlings at the same depth as they were in their pots.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil moist until germination. Thin seedlings to about 30 cm apart.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water sparingly once established, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the base for moisture retention.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves and stems in late winter to encourage new growth. Harvest flowers for dried arrangements.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesRootSeedShootsStem
Edible uses: Coffee
Other uses:Hairtextiles
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

14 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 14 native
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Balsamorhiza sagittata (Oregon Sunflower) — botanical photograph
Oregon Sunflower (Balsamorhiza sagittata)
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