Kentucky Plant Atlas




Taxonomic distinction unclear    No county information
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Asteraceae <Heliantheae> Helianthus <uncertain affinity> occidentalis var. dowellianus
Helianthus occidentalis Riddell var. dowellianus (M.A. Curtis) Torr. & Gray
ALI: no HAB: 10,8?, n/a, C?, 4 ABU: g8?, s2?, -5
This largely Appalachian taxon differs from typical occidentalis in its more branched and leafy stems; leaves are broader, sometimes more serrated, usually withering soon at the base, less reduced up the stems, and less pubescent (scabrous/strigose versus hirsute on upper leaf surfaces). Var. dowellianus is somewhat similar to atrorubens, and hybrid origin has been suggested (Heiser et al. 1969), but F suggested a broader concept, with similarity also to H. laetiflorus Pers. (sensu lato). Alternatively, it may be that growing conditions play a significant role in the more robust habit of this putative taxon. In Ky. three colls. from PULA were initially referred to this taxon in 1940-1960. Their identification remains uncertain, along with the status of var. dowellianus in general: (1) E.L. Braun (see B but not located at US), "very distinct in appearance and habit of growth, and in habitat; dry soil, open grassy slopes"; (2) F.T. McFarland (F, MO, etc.), probably in the same general locality as B, a roadside near Somerset; and (3) D.M. Smith-K-121 (KY), 11 Sep 1958, roadside 2.5 miles southeast of Science Hill. Plants in MADI (Doylesville Rd) may also be referred to dowellianus, at least in cultivation, when they become much more leafy up the stems (in garden of JC).