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

Helianthus atrorubens is a perennial sunflower in the Asteraceae, commonly called Dark Red Sunflower. It flowers from July to October. The species prefers a full-sun position in moist, well-drained soil. It is native to Mississippi, North Carolina, Virginia, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Uzbekistan and Georgia.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Helianthus atrorubens

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 4.0Helianthus

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.

More in the Helianthus genus

Browse all Helianthus