About

A compact, branching, annual to 60cm tall with dark green, oval leaves. Golden-yellow flowerheads 8-10cm across with a deep reddish-brown ring surrounding the dark central eye are borne in profusion over a long season; this sterile cultivar does not produce seed.

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, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationGrow in full sun in any fertile, well-drained, neutral, or preferably calcareous, soil. Ideal for growing in containers. The flowers attract bees and other insects
PruningNo pruning required
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