Nuttall's Sunflower (Helianthus nuttallii) is a striking vertical accent, perfect bringing late-season drama to native plantings. Its tall, upright stems are topped with clusters of vibrant yellow flowers that radiate warmth and movement in the garden from July through August or September. This sunflower creates a bold backdrop when planted en masse or serves as an eye-catching specimen in more formal settings. With its narrow, lance-shaped leaves and airy structure, it contrasts beautifully with grasses and other lower-growing natives, adding texture and height without heaviness. Plant Nuttall's sunflower as a backdrop or specimen plant in garden beds or borders, in matrix or meadowscapes, rain gardens, along canals or streams, and in pollinator gardens receiving more moisture.
Nuttall's Sunflower
Irrigation Requirement: Moderate (1/2" every 7-10 days)
Mature Size: 3 - 8' tall and 1 - 4' wide
Spacing: 2 - 4' apart
Bloom Colors: Yellow
Bloom Season: July - August or September
Hardiness Zone: 5 - 9
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Deer Resistant: Moderately
Salt Tolerant: No
Soils: Prefers loam or clay soils. Does not do well in sandy soils.
Plants in the genus Helianthus are known host plants for 48 pollinators in northern Utah. Nuttall's Sunflower also attracts a wide variety of pollinators, including specialist native bees.

