About
A tall, perennial sunflower to a height of around 300cm with thin, rough, slightly twisted green leaves. Long stems of yellow flowers appear one after another in late September through to October. Can reach a width of 150cm so requires space and is therefore ideal for a meadow or prairie or the edge of a woodland area.
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
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesPrairie planting, Wildflower meadow
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, neutral to alkaline, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun
PruningCut back to the ground in 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