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Swamp Sunflower
Helianthus angustifolius · Asteraceae
How it looks
Swamp Sunflower is a perennial with narrow, linear leaves under 1 in (2.5 cm) wide, set alternately along tall stems. From late summer it carries many yellow flowers 1-3 in (2.5-7.5 cm) across, each with a purplish-brown center. It grows tall, 5-8 ft (1.5-2.4 m).
The safety call on this page is based on swamp sunflower (Helianthus angustifolius), which the ASPCA lists as non-toxic to cats. The common florist sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is not listed separately, but ASPCA Poison Control names that species — with its scientific name — as non-toxic in a published list, so we mark it safe as well. No Helianthus species appears on the ASPCA toxic list.
Guide for parents
This page covers swamp sunflower (Helianthus angustifolius), the species the ASPCA lists as non-toxic to cats. The large sunflower sold by florists is usually a different species in the same genus (Helianthus annuus), and we keep a separate page for it, which is also marked safe. If you are not sure which one came home in your bouquet, read that page alongside this one.
A safe plant, but cut stems are often treated with florist preservatives, so place the vase where your cat can't drink the water.
The large leaves may catch your cat's attention, but a nibble or two is no big deal. The thick stems sit securely in a vase, but wilted petals can be slippery when they drop — pick them up the same day.
Details
- Scientific name
- Helianthus angustifolius
- Common name
- Swamp Sunflower
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Source
- ASPCA cats plant list
Related plants
Same plant family· Asteraceae
Other safe flowers
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