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Wingstem

Verbesina alternifolia

Last reviewed: June 2026

Wingstem (Verbesina alternifolia)
Photo: Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA SCS. 1989. Midwest wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. Midwest National Technical Center, Lincoln. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

36"–72" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, DE, FL and 27 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Central Oklahoma/Texas PlainsSouth Central Plains

Wingstem is a tall native wildflower that produces bright yellow daisy-like blooms from July through September. This sturdy perennial can reach up to 6 feet tall with a relatively narrow spread, making it suitable for back-of-border plantings. The distinctive winged stems give this plant its common name and add architectural interest even before flowering.

In an HOA neighborhood

Wingstem takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Very tall height appears too wild for front yards
  • Can look weedy when dormant
  • May spread and appear uncontrolled

Wildlife value

This plant is highly valuable for late-season pollinators, attracting bees, butterflies, and beetles when many other flowers have finished blooming. The seeds also 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 Wingstem fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.

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