Narrowleaf or swamp sunflower (Helianthus angustifolius) is a native wildflower well adapted to the freshwater wetland environments in northeastern North Carolina and Alligator River, Pocosin Lakes and Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuges. It is one of the last native wildflowers to bloom in the area, and songbirds eat its seeds through the winter months. The late flowers are very important sources of nutrition for native bees and butterflies. It does require sunlight to bloom and make seed.