Helianthus pumilus
(Little Sunflower)
Helianthus pumilus, George Stadler Rd., Rist Canyon, Larimer Co. 2334
Helianthus pumilus, George Stadler Rd., Rist Canyon, Larimer Co. 2337
Helianthus pumilus, George Stadler Rd., Rist Canyon, Larimer Co. 2344
Helianthus pumilus, George Stadler Rd., Rist Canyon, Larimer Co. 2338
| Scientific Name | Helianthus pumilus | USDA PLANTS Symbol | HEPU3 |
| Common Name | Little Sunflower | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 36679 |
| Family | Asteraceae (Sunflower) | SEINet Reference |
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| Description |
Life zones and habitat: Plains to montane (5000 to 9000 ft.); dry rocky soils in open areas, meadows and grasslands. Plant: Erect perennial from 12 to 40 inches tall; stems simple or branched and covered with stiff, bristly hairs (hispid). Leaves: Opposite, grayish-green lanceolate to ovate blades 1/6 to 6 inches long and 0.4 to 2 inches wide, on petioles 0.2 to 1.2 inches long; edges are entire or serrate; surfaces have short, rough hairs and are gland-dotted. Inflorescence: A few composite heads up to 2 inches across on short peduncles; 8–13 yellow rays and 30+ disk florets having yellow corollas and dark brown to black anthers; involucre below has 15 to 25 bracts that are 0.3 inches long or less, covered with stiff, white hairs and are gland-dotted. Bloom Period: June to October. References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, Flora of North America and Montana Field Guide. |
BONAP Distribution Map Map Color Key |
Colorado Status: Native |
© Tom Lebsack 2025
Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains
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