Sunflower
Native perennial Sunflower keeps the table full long after summer. Bees and butterflies crowd its blooms, caterpillars nibble its leaves, and birds return for the seeds once the petals fall. Choose a moisture-loving species such as swamp sunflower and its roots can also collect rainwater.
Planting Guide
Zones: 3–8
Blooms: Aug–Oct
Water: Moist
Light: Full Sun
Height: 4’–7’
Width: 1.5’–3’
Wildlife and Garden Benefits
Explore More Plants
The Mediocre Gardener is a community-led movement that aims to inspire people to plant native, garden with nature, and strengthen independent garden centers — one yard at a time.
What does it mean to be a Mediocre Gardener?
It means you don’t wait until you know everything before you begin. It means you plant what works where you live, choose plants that give back to the earth, and allow your garden to evolve over time.
Mediocre is not careless. It’s accessible.
Mediocrity is imperfect, achievable, and meaningful. You don’t need a landscape architect or a master plan to participate. You need the right plants in the right place, along with a little guidance and support. That’s what we’re here for.
