About
A tall, herbaceous perennial to 2m or more, with green leaves and small, yellow sunflowers in late summer-autumn. It is grown for its edible roots which are smoother and thin-skinned compared to the species type.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any water-retentive soil with good drainage. Flowering will be better in full sun, but for maximum harvest, flowering should be avoided so some shade is good. Choose a sheltered spot as the tall plants can blow over in the wind. May have the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well. For more advice see Jerusalem-artichoke cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate from division of tubers
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to damage from slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free