Florida false sunflower
Phoebanthus grandiflorus, Florida False Sunflower is a showy wildflower found in sandhills and pine and scrubby flatwoods. It is endemic to the Florida peninsula. The main bloom is in summer but may flower at other times. Its vibrant flowers attract pollinators, especially bees and butterflies. Birds eat its seeds.
Flowers are large (about 3½ inches in diameter), broad and consist of long yellow ray florets surrounding a yellow central disk. They are terminal and typically solitary. Leaves are linear to narrowly lanceolate with a rough surface and entire margins. Leaf arrangement is mostly alternate. Basal leaves are absent. Stems are rough, thin and typically unbranched.
Family: Asteraceae (Aster, composite or daisy family)
Hardiness: Zones 8A–9B
Lifespan: Perennial
Soil: Moderately moist to dry, well-drained sandy soils
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Growth habit: 3+’ tall
Propagation: Seed
Garden tips: Florida false sunflower works well in a wildflower or butterfly garden. Because of its thin profile, plant several specimens close together for best visibility. The plant spreads by underground rhizomes and can form colonies if allowed.
