About
This clump-forming herbaceous perennial with rough green narrow leaves to a height of 2m. In late summer and autumn bears yellow daisy flowers with brown centres.
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 typeSand, Loam, Clay, Chalk
Soil pHNeutral, Alkaline
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy, Clump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Does well in soils that don't dry out in summer. Ideal for the back of borders. May need support. See staking perennials
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering and cut back to ground level as foliage starts to yellow and die back in autumn
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