Nuttall'S Sunflower
Helianthus nuttallii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–72" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, IA and 15 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Nuttall's sunflower is a tall native perennial that produces bright yellow daisy-like flowers from summer through early fall. This robust wildflower can reach up to 6 feet tall and spreads slowly to form colonies over time.
In an HOA neighborhood
Nuttall'S Sunflower takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very tall growth can appear uncontrolled
- Spreads to form colonies
- Dies back completely in winter leaving tall brown stems
Wildlife value
The cheerful blooms attract bees, butterflies, and beetles throughout the summer flowering period. Seeds provide food for birds in fall and winter.
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 Nuttall'S Sunflower fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.