Odorous Sunflower
Helianthus silphioides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, IL, KY and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Odorous sunflower is a perennial that produces bright yellow sunflower blooms from summer through early fall. This sturdy plant grows 2-5 feet tall with a relatively narrow spread, making it suitable for borders and mixed plantings. Despite its common name, the plant has only a mild scent that most people find inoffensive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Odorous 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.
- Height and informal appearance may violate landscaping restrictions
- Can look scraggly when dormant in winter
- Common name includes 'odorous' which may concern neighbors
Wildlife value
This native sunflower attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles during its long blooming period. The seeds provide food for birds in late fall and winter.
Common questions
- How much sun does Odorous Sunflower need?
- Odorous Sunflower grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Odorous Sunflower bloom?
- Odorous Sunflower blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Odorous Sunflower native?
- Odorous Sunflower (Helianthus silphioides) is native to AL, AR, IL, KY and 5 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Odorous Sunflower attract?
- Odorous Sunflower draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
- Is Odorous Sunflower HOA-friendly?
- Odorous Sunflower takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Odorous Sunflower? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz