Common Name: Paleleaf Woodland Sunflower

General Information

Helianthus strumosus is a perennial plant growing from a tuberous rootstock; it can grow up to 2 metres tall
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food and medicine. It is sometimes grown as an ornamental in gardens.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

, ,

Range

Eastern and central N. America - N. Dakota, Ontario and Quebec, south to Texas and Florida.

Habitat

Dry woods and banks[]. Woods, roadsides, prairies; at elevations from sea level to 1,500 metres[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Medicinal Rating
Habit	Perennial
Height	2.00 m
Pollinators	Bees, Flies
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Succeeds in most soils in a sunny position[]. Requires a rich soil[]. Dislikes shade[]. Prefers a moist soil[].
The young growth is extremely attractive to slugs, plants can be totally destroyed by them[].
Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer or rabbits[].
Plants have a running root system and can be invasive[].

Edible Uses

Root[]. No more details but it is probably used raw or cooked like the Jerusalem artichoke.

Medicinal

A decoction of the roots has been used to get rid of worms in both adults and children[]. An infusion of the roots has been used in the treatment of lung problems[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.
Division in spring or autumn. Very easy, larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.