Tall or Giant Sunflower

Tall or Giant Sunflower [Helianthus giganteus] found at Fletcher Park on 22 August 2013. It’s a member of the Aster (Asteraceae) family and Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide, pages 388-389, states it blooms in summer and fall in swamps and damp thickets. The stem is “often purple,” as seen below.
USDA Plants Listing: Helianthus giganteus

Tall Sunflower at Fletcher Park - 22 August 2013

Tall Sunflower at Fletcher Park – 22 August 2013

 

Tall Sunflower (details) - 22 August 2013

Tall Sunflower (details) – 22 August 2013