Stiff Sunflower
Helianthus pauciflorusfam. Asteraceae
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Pl. 137B — Helianthus pauciflorus
Helianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorusHelianthus pauciflorus
IOverview
Overview
Stiff Sunflower (Helianthus pauciflorus) is a perennial forb or herb native to the eastern and central United States as well as parts of Canada. It thrives in habitats ranging from Alberta to Wyoming, growing in light, medium, and heavy soils with a preference for dry to moist conditions. Known both for its edible seeds and medicinal properties, this plant has been utilized by various indigenous communities. Stiff Sunflower can reach heights of 1.5 meters and is characterized by its stiff, upright habit, making it an attractive ornamental addition to gardens. Its adaptability to a wide range of soil types and hardiness zones from 3-7 makes it a versatile choice for gardeners in these regions.
Quick answers
What is Stiff Sunflower?
Stiff Sunflower (Helianthus pauciflorus) is a perennial forb or herb native to the eastern and central United States as well as parts of Canada. It thrives in habitats ranging from Alberta to Wyoming, growing in light, medium, and heavy soils with a preference for dry to moist conditions.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Sunflower Strength
focustincture
Traditional use for mental clarity and focus.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Stiff Sunflower thrives in well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) and prefers a slightly alkaline pH between 7.5 and 8. It is hardy in zones 3-7, making it suitable for temperate regions. This perennial requires full sun to partial shade and can tolerate dry to moist conditions. For best results, sow seeds directly in the garden after the last frost or propagate via division. Stiff Sunflower grows up to 1.5 meters tall and is native to a wide range of eastern and central North American states, including Alberta, Arkansas, British Columbia, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, and more. Its edible seeds can be harvested for use in various culinary applications.
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-7
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.5 m tall
Soil pH
7.5–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Stiff Sunflower for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Stiff Sunflower to gain experience in sunflower cultivation.
- 1
What you'll need
Sunflower seeds, garden soil, a trowel or shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or start indoors about 4 weeks before the last expected frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 7.5–8. Ensure your garden bed is free of weeds and debris.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart, or start indoors in small pots before transplanting.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Stake tall plants if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain plant health. Cut back stems in fall after frost.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too close together, neglecting to stake tall plants.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:oil
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Vermont, Massachusetts, North Dakota, Nova Scotia, Oklahoma, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Prince Edward I., Québec, Rhode I., Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Texas, Alberta, Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Masachusettes, New Jersey, Arkansas, British Columbia, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asteraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asteraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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