About
A clump-forming herbaceous perennial with rough green narrow leaves to a height of 2m. In late summer and autumn bears yellow daisy flowers with purple-red, or sometimes yellow disks.
About the genus
Helianthus can be tall, erect annuals, tuberous or rhizomatous perennials, with coarse simple leaves and large daisy-like flower-heads
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Sand, Loam, Clay
Soil pHNeutral, Alkaline
Soil moisturePoorly-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Does well in soils that don't dry out in summer. May need support. See staking perennials
PruningCut back after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed or division. Divide established clumps every 2-4 years to both increase plants and retain vigour. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Powdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases