About
A compact annual to around 80cm in height with green leaves. conspicuous golden-yellow flowers with greenish centres appear throughout the summer.
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
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy, Clump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, neutral to alkaline, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. This plant was included in the RHS Helianthus (sunflower) trial 2024
PruningCut back after flowering or leave flower heads for birds to eat seed
PropagationPropagate by seed (sown indoors) between April and May and keep in a sunny location, planting out in late spring or early summer when the risk of frost has passed. Also propagate by seed (sown outdoors) when the risk of frost has passed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases