About
A vigorous perennial forming a substantial clump of erect stems, with narrow, arching leaves and large sprays of brown-centred yellow daisies 5-7cm wide opening in early autumn; grown largely for foliage effect.
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, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native toUSA
Care notes
CultivationRequires a moderately fertile, moist but well-drained, alkaline to neutral soil in full sun
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 resistanceSusceptible to slugs
Disease resistancePowdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases may be a problem