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Key characteristics

Family: Asteraceae
Height: 60–96 inches
Width: 30–72 inches
Flower color: Pale lemon-yellow with a darker central disk
Foliage color: Dark green with a willow-like appearance
Bloom time: Late summer to fall (August–October)
Light: Full sun
Water: Moderate to low
Maintenance: Low; occasional staking may be necessary
Growing zone: USDA zones 4–9
Wildlife: Attracts pollinators such as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Birds love the seeds, and it is also resistant to deer and rabbits

Perennials

Helianthus salicifolius 'Lemon Queen'

Lemon Queen Sunflower

Helianthus salicifolius 'Lemon Queen' is a late-season bloomer that brings soft yellow tones to the garden from late summer into fall. Its daisy-like flowers have pale lemon-yellow petals surrounding a darker golden center, producing a bright and inviting effect. The blooms appear in abundance atop tall, sturdy stems, making it a favorite for adding height and movement to perennial borders.

This cultivar is known for its vigorous growth and ability to thrive in a variety of garden settings.

Light

Full sun

Water

Moderate to low

Bloom time

Late summer to fall (August–October)

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Sun Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Hummingbird Gardens
Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Coreopsis · Bearded irises · Bee balm · Yarrow · Ornamental grasses · Garden phlox

Design tip

Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. In full sun it holds its shape best, and grouping several together keeps the color strong enough to be seen from across the garden.