Spectacular bursts of sunshine are flowering along the roadsides and in midland gardens this October. An aura of gold suffuses the autumn atmosphere.

Jerusalem artichoke, Helianthus turberosa, is a 10’ tall perennial sunflower grown for its edible roots as well as attractive yellow composite flowers. Native Americans first cultivated the plant for the tubers and redistributed the plant across North America.

The easy to grow sunflower prefers full sun and loose, well–drained soil. Gangly growth makes the plant suitable in informal gardens or along fences where it can be staked. The flowers attract butterflies and seeds are sought by finches and other songbirds. Cut flowers make excellent indoor arrangements. Plants reseed easily and may overtake an area if not controlled by deadheading.

Swamp sunflower, Helianthus angustifolius, is an autumn blooming cousin of the Jerusalem artichoke. This narrow leaved sunflower likes moist sunny or partially sunny locations. It is often spotted along roadside ditches and fence lines.

Swamp sunflower, often found in roadside ditches, deserves a place in the home garden. Swamp sunflower reaches a height of 4’ – 6’ and is popular for wildflower gardens and mixed borders. The plant spreads rapidly by rhizomes so you will always have clumps to share.

Golden coleus, Solenostemon scutellarioides, has a mounded upright growth habit adapting well to containers, baskets and borders. The golden coleus is heat and shade tolerant and makes a shimmering golden appearance when bedded with contrasting colors.

The composite wildflowers goldenrod, Solidago sp., and the golden aster, Heterotheca sp., are two roadside plants slowly making their way into home gardens. Both are short–day perennial plants blooming in late summer and early fall. They are credited with providing the last great golden flower show of the year before the first frost settles in.

Jerusalem artichoke flowers attract butterflies and also make excellent indoor arrangements. What radiant plants brighten your surroundings?
Goldenrod