Tennessee Sunflower, Eggert's Sunflower (Helianthus eggertii)

Helianthus eggertii is known only from the Interior Low Plateaus (Highland Rim and Pennyroyal Plain) of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Alabama where it occurs in barrens habitat. Currently, 123 populations are scattered throughout the plant's range . These populations contain hundreds to thousands of ramets. Threats to this species are fire suppression, conversion of the habitat for other uses, exotic plant invasion, right-ofway maintenance, and herbivory. The plant is known to respond positively to management activities including burning and mowing. Herbicide applications (using appropriate procedures) may also be beneficial in eliminating invasive species.

One of the largest populations of Eggert's Sunflower is on Arnold AFB in Tullahoma TN. 

Photographic Location: Cedars of Lebanon State Park.