Plant library
Ground cover
Beach Sunflower
Helianthus debilis
Zones 8–11
A cheerful, salt-spray-tolerant native that blankets tough coastal ground with sunny yellow daisies nearly year-round.
Sun
Full sun
Water
low
Spacing
18-24 in apart; spreads 3-4 ft per plant
Soil
Sandy, well-drained soil (pH 6.0-8.0); tolerates salt
Difficulty
easy
Zones
8–11
When to plant
See care notes for timing in your zone.
Timing shifts with your zone — the Genie can pin down exact dates for you.
How to care for it
Plant in spring after frost, 18-24 in apart, in a sunny spot with drainage. Water weekly the first month, then leave it alone — it thrives on beach-like neglect.
Good companions
Beach grasses, sea oats, yucca, gaillardia in coastal gardens
Harvest
Not a food crop; cut stems of daisies freely for cheerful, long-lasting bouquets.
Want a plan for growing Beach Sunflower?
Your Genie can give exact timing and care for your zone.
