Sunflower- Early Sunflower (Heliopsis helianthoides) (Florida Native)

Sunflower- Early Sunflower - Heliopsis helianthoides AKA- Smooth sunflower, False sunflower, Oxeye daisy, Oxeye, Oxeye sunflower, Heliopsis sunflower Its native range is widely distributed mainly east of the Rocky Mountains from Ontario to North Florida and Mississippi. Smooth oxeye is adapted to full sunlight and dry to moderately moist soil conditions. It can be found growing in prairies, roadsides, and open woods, edge of fields and thickets, and waste areas. This species tolerates some drought and also a wide range of soil types, including nutrient-poor soils. It has proven to perform best in areas receiving >5” of rainfall. Smooth oxeye is not salinity-tolerant. Attracts butterflies and bees but the list of insects is diverse and includes hoverflies and soldier beetles.  The ground nesting bee, Holcopasites heliopis, is a specialist pollinator of Heliopsis helianthoides. If growing in Central Florida South, 2-4 weeks of cold stratification of the seeds is recommended.   Day