Helianthus strumosus — Bushy, Clump forming

Overview

Helianthus strumosus is a bushy, clump forming annual biennial in the genus Helianthus, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Helianthus strumosus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, wildlife gardens, cottage and informal garden and patio and container plants.

About

Helianthus strumosus, the pale-leaf woodland sunflower, is a species of sunflower native to North America east of the Great Plains and is in the family Asteraceae. It is a native perennial sunflower that resembles other members of this family including the Pale Sunflower (H. decapetalus), Woodland Sunflower (H. divaricatus), Hispid Sunflower (H. hirsutus), and Jerusalem Artichoke (H. tuberosus). Pale-leaf sunflowers can be found in a diverse range of habitats including woodland areas, prairies, and meadows, providing that these habitats have access to partial sun. In the garden it prefers full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is tender and needs frost-free protection over winter (RHS H2). Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, wildlife gardens, cottage and informal garden and patio and container plants. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant out after last frost in fertile, well-drained soil.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Helianthus strumosus

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Helianthus

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H2

Plant details

Helianthus strumosus size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Annual Biennial
Habit: Bushy, Clump forming
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: City and courtyard gardens, Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Helianthus strumosus

Propagation: Propagate 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 resistance: May be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistance: May be susceptible to powdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Helianthus strumosus?

Helianthus strumosus prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Helianthus strumosus need?

Helianthus strumosus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Helianthus strumosus hardy in the UK?

Helianthus strumosus has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.

How do I propagate Helianthus strumosus?

Propagate 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.

More in the Helianthus genus

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