Cucumberleaf sunflower
Helianthus debilis
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
FL, TX, AL, MS and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
A sprawling, low-mounding perennial forb with rough, triangular, toothed leaves and cheerful yellow daisy-like flowers with dark centers held on branching stems. Blooms nearly continuously through the warm season and spreads readily as a groundcover. Tolerates sandy, well-drained soil, heat, and salt spray with low water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cucumberleaf sunflower is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone, backyard only.
- sprawling groundcover habit may need periodic edging to keep tidy
Wildlife value
Host plant for Bordered Patch, Silvery Checkerspot.
Long bloom season provides abundant nectar and pollen for bees and butterflies, and the foliage serves as a larval host for several butterfly species.
Common questions
- How much sun does Cucumberleaf sunflower need?
- Cucumberleaf sunflower grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Cucumberleaf sunflower bloom?
- Cucumberleaf sunflower blooms in April, May, June, July, August, September, and October.
- Where is Cucumberleaf sunflower native?
- Cucumberleaf sunflower (Helianthus debilis) is native to FL, TX, AL, MS and 2 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Cucumberleaf sunflower host?
- Cucumberleaf sunflower is a larval host plant for Bordered Patch and Silvery Checkerspot.
- Is Cucumberleaf sunflower HOA-friendly?
- Cucumberleaf sunflower is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Cucumberleaf sunflower fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.