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Description
Helianthus Smithii, commonly known as Smith’s Sunflower, is a tall annual plant that can grow up to 10 feet in height. It is native to the central and eastern regions of the United States and is often found in prairies, meadows, and open woods. The plant produces stunning yellow flowers that have a diameter of up to 4 inches and bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The leaves of the Helianthus Smithii are large and ovate, measuring up to 12 inches in length and 8 inches in width. The plant’s stem is erect, sturdy, and covered in fine hairs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helianthus |
Appearance
The Helianthus Smithii is a large plant that can grow up to 10 feet in height and 3 feet in width. The plant produces stunning yellow flowers that have a diameter of up to 4 inches and a dark brown center. The flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The leaves of the plant are large, ovate, and measure up to 12 inches in length and 8 inches in width. They are light green in color and have a rough texture. The stem of the Helianthus Smithii is erect, sturdy, and covered in fine hairs. The plant’s roots are shallow and fibrous.
Care Guide
The Helianthus Smithii is a relatively easy plant to grow and maintain. Here are some tips for caring for your Smith’s Sunflower:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive. Make sure it is planted in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The Helianthus Smithii is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Helianthus Smithii is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug bait or handpick them off the plant.
- Fungal Diseases: The plant can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Use a fungicide to control the infection.
Habitat
The Helianthus Smithii is native to the central and eastern regions of the United States and is often found in prairies, meadows, and open woods. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Helianthus Smithii?
A: The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Helianthus Smithii?
A: The Helianthus Smithii is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Q: What pests and diseases are common to the Helianthus Smithii?
A: Common pests and diseases include aphids, slugs and snails, and fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust.
Q: What is the appearance of the Helianthus Smithii?
A: The Helianthus Smithii is a large plant that can grow up to 10 feet in height and 3 feet in width. The plant produces stunning yellow flowers that have a diameter of up to 4 inches and a dark brown center. The leaves of the plant are large, ovate, and measure up to 12 inches in length and 8 inches in width.
Related Plants
- Helianthus annuus (Common Sunflower)
- Helianthus maximiliani (Maximilian Sunflower)
- Helianthus petiolaris (Prairie Sunflower)
References
- Illinois Wildflowers. (n.d.). Helianthus smithii. Retrieved from https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/smith_sunflower.html
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Helianthus smithii. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282649&isprofile=0&
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Helianthus smithii Heiser. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=HESM4
