About
In summer they create a wonderful display of bright lemony yellow flowers, with a darker yellow centre. A compact and branching, fast-growing annual with oval to heart-shaped, green leaves. Great for smaller gardens and bringing a splash of sunshine to the patio and for attracting bees and butterflies.
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, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHNeutral, Alkaline
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Patio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Will flower best in a long, hot summer. May need a cane to support the weight of the bloom and grow tall
PruningCut back old stems after flowering as they die down for the winter
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