Description

This sunflower brightens sunny meadows and grasslands throughout the northern half of the state. Following summer dormancy, the tuberous root of mule ears species sends up numerous wide, lance-shaped leaves (look like mule ears). The leaves of narrow leaf mule ears are rather short, so the plant may not be noticed until its bright yellow flowers appear. These attract a wide range of pollinators. The abundant seeds that follow also support birds and other wildlife. Mule ears go dormant after flowering to reappear the following year. Narrow leaf mule ears is tolerant of some additional water during the growing season, but this addition will not prevent dormancy.