Overview

Helianthus annuus 'Prado Red Shades' (Prado Series) is a bushy, clump forming annual biennial in the genus Helianthus, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Helianthus annuus 'Prado Red Shades' (Prado Series) grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, wildlife gardens, cottage and informal garden and patio and container plants.

About

Helianthus annuus 'Prado Red Shades' (Prado Series) is a bushy, clump-forming annual cultivar within the Helianthus genus, known for its upright growth and broad, simple leaves. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun with a south- or west-facing aspect and prefers moist but well-drained soils including chalk, loam, and sand, across a range of pH levels. Suitable for sheltered locations, it is ideal for city and courtyard gardens, wildlife areas, cottage and informal gardens, as well as patios and containers. Propagation is by seed or division, with established clumps divided every 2-4 years to maintain vigour.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Helianthus

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H2

Plant details

Helianthus annuus 'Prado Red Shades' (Prado Series) size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Annual Biennial
Habit
Bushy, Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Helianthus annuus 'Prado Red Shades' (Prado Series)

Propagation
Propagate 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 resistance
May be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to powdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Helianthus annuus 'Prado Red Shades' (Prado Series)?

Helianthus annuus 'Prado Red Shades' (Prado Series) prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Helianthus annuus 'Prado Red Shades' (Prado Series) need?

Helianthus annuus 'Prado Red Shades' (Prado Series) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Helianthus annuus 'Prado Red Shades' (Prado Series) hardy in the UK?

Helianthus annuus 'Prado Red Shades' (Prado Series) has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.

How do I propagate Helianthus annuus 'Prado Red Shades' (Prado Series)?

Propagate 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.

More in the Helianthus genus

Browse all Helianthus