About
This clump-forming herbaceous perennial with green hairy stems, long lance-shaped leaves and aromatic, yellow daisy-like flowers borne all the way up the length of each stem.
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, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens, Prairie planting
Native toN America (MO, TX, S. Canada)
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. May need support. See staking perennials
PruningCut back old stems after flowering as they die down for the winter
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