Overview
Helianthus atrorubens is a perennial in the genus Helianthus, part of the Asteraceae family. Helianthus atrorubens grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils. It is native to Mississippi, North Carolina, Virginia, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Uzbekistan and Georgia.
About the genus
Helianthus is a genus comprising around 50 species of annual and perennial flowering plants in the daisy family Asteraceae commonly known as sunflowers. The species of Helianthus are native to North America. The best-known species is the common sunflower.
Wikipedia contributors, "Helianthus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Helianthus
In the garden
Helianthus atrorubens is a perennial member of the Asteraceae commonly listed as Dark Red Sunflower. It is native to parts of the United States and to Uzbekistan, occurring in states such as Mississippi, North Carolina, Virginia, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky and Georgia. Expect flowering from July to October, providing colour through late summer into autumn. Plant in a reliably sunny spot so the crowns receive full sun for most of the day. The species prefers soils that are well drained yet retain some moisture; aim for a soil that does not stay waterlogged but will not bake dry. Regular watering while establishing helps, after which plants tolerate typical garden moisture levels provided drainage is good. Use Helianthus atrorubens where a late-season presence is wanted: a sunny back border, an open meadow or a naturalistic planting where summer and autumn bloom time is useful. Because it is a perennial it returns each season from its roots, making it suitable where a permanent summer-to-autumn display is required. Expect the flowering window of July to October to define its contribution to the garden calendar.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Helianthus
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil type
- well-drained
- Soil moisture
- moist
Plant details
Helianthus atrorubens size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Native to
- Mississippi, North Carolina, Virginia, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Uzbekistan, Georgia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Helianthus atrorubens
- Propagation
- seed
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Helianthus atrorubens?
Helianthus atrorubens prefers full sun.
What soil does Helianthus atrorubens need?
Helianthus atrorubens grows best in well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I propagate Helianthus atrorubens?
Seed.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
More in the Helianthus genus
- Helianthus decapetalusthin-leaf sunflower
- Helianthus salicifoliuswillow-leaved sunflower
- Helianthus tomentosusJerusalem artichoke
- Helianthus 'Carine'Sunflower
- Helianthus annuus Solano Orange Nr. 14 (Solano Series)Common Sunflower
- Helianthus orygalis
- Helianthus scaberrimusSunflower