Narrowleaf Mule's Ear: Wyethia angustifolia

Plant type: deciduous, perennial, herbaceous
Plant Height: 1 - 2'

Light: full sun
Soil: dry to moist, but well-draining

PPL: no

Your own mini-sunflower!
Leafs out early, blooms May-July, then turns into a crispy critter naturally, so give it company to hide the dead leaves. Dies back entirely overwinter. See it naturally in southern Washington (looking at you, Columbia River Gorge), as well as the Willamette Valley. 

Caterpillars and insects will thank you.