[2] It is native to the central United States, primarily in the Great Plains and Ozark Plateau (states of Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas).

There are a few reports of scattered populations in the Northeast and Midwest parts of the country, but these appear to be escapes from cultivation.

[3] Helianthus salicifolius grows in limestone prairies.

It is a perennial herbaceous plant up to 2.5 m (8.2 ft) tall, spreading by means of underground rhizomes.

One plant usually produces 6-15 flower heads, each containing 10-20 yellow ray florets surrounding 50 or more red disc florets.