About
Subtle, golden yellow daisy-like flowers with darker centres appear from mid-summer through until the autumn. A woody, clump-forming perennial species of sunflower to around 200cm in height, forming a tall, bushy clump of narrow, tapered green leaves with velvety undersides and red stems. This woodland perennial, unlike other perennial sunflowers, is non-invasive and makes a great addition to wildflower beds.
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
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, neutral to alkaline, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun
PruningCut back in the autumn or leave for birds to eat the seeds
PropagationPropagate by seed in spring or division in autumn. Divide every three years to maintain vigour. See propagate by seed (sown indoors) or
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases