Quick answer: Swamp sunflower (Helianthus angustifolius) is native to 21 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Eric Hunt, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Wet |
| Soil | Sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, clay, acid-based soils |
| Bloom | Bloom Aug-Nov |
| Height | Up to 5 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Attracts birds, special value to native bees |
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Swamp sunflower
Where is Swamp sunflower native?
Swamp sunflower (Helianthus angustifolius) is native to 21 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Swamp sunflower bloom?
Swamp sunflower blooms Aug-Nov. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Swamp sunflower need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Medium water, Wet. Soil: Sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, clay, acid-based soils. Mature height: Up to 5 ft tall.
Is Swamp sunflower good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts birds, special value to native bees.
Is Swamp sunflower deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Swamp sunflower is tolerates shade and handles wet soil.
Where can I buy real Swamp sunflower seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Helianthus angustifolius on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Swamp sunflower.
- Common buttonbush Cephalanthus occidentalis
- Mountain azalea Rhododendron canescens
- Southern arrowwood Viburnum dentatum
- Black willow Salix nigra
- Swamp rose Rosa palustris
- White turtlehead Chelone glabra
Also listed under
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