This perennial sunflower is native to the central and eastern US and is a threatened species in Ohio.
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Growth Habits & Characteristics
•Height: Generally reaches 2 to 4 feet tall
•Growth Form: Upright, branching stems that form loose clumps
•Leaves: Lance-shaped with a noticeable downy (hairy) texture, which gives the plant its common name
•Flowers: Bright yellow flower heads, featuring numerous ray florets encircling a darker central disk; blooms for several weeks - typically from mid-summer into early fall
•Habitat: Thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, commonly found in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides
•Reproduction: Produces abundant seeds that are easily dispersed, allowing it to naturalize in suitable conditions
•The root system of the downy sunflower has an allelopathic agent that prevents other plants from growing near it. It is an aggressive grower and will easily take over an area. 
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Native sunflowers are a keystone plant species. Various species of bees visit the downy sunflower including bumblebees, miner bees, leaf-cutting bees, and cuckoo bees. This flower also serves as a host plant for several species of butterflies including the silvery checkerspot. The seed heads are also a great source of food for birds and other wildlife.
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Companion Plants
Downy sunflower thrives in diverse plantings and pairs well with other native species that together create a balanced, wildlife-friendly garden or restoration area. Notable companion plants include:
•Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): Offers contrasting flower colors and similar growing conditions, enhancing the visual appeal of native gardens.
•Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): Provides extended blooming periods and attracts complementary pollinators.
•Native Prairie Grasses (e.g., Little Bluestem – Schizachyrium scoparium): Their fine textures and vertical structure complement the broad, bold blooms of downy sunflower while contributing to soil stability.
•Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa): Adds aromatic foliage and additional nectar sources, enriching the overall ecological diversity.
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Ecological Importance
•Wildlife Food Source:
The seeds of downy sunflower serve as a valuable food source for various bird species, such as finches and sparrows, thereby contributing to avian diversity.
•Habitat Enhancement:
By growing in open, sunny areas, it helps stabilize soil and improve the structure of native plant communities. Its presence in meadows and restoration sites supports a complex network of insects, birds, and other wildlife, enhancing overall ecosystem resilience.