Overview

Heliopsis helianthoides is a perennial in the genus Heliopsis, part of the Asteraceae family. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Heliopsis helianthoides grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Connecticut and Iowa.

About

Heliopsis helianthoides is a perennial in the Asteraceae that produces sunflower-like heads and reaches about 1.5 m. It flowers from July to September, providing a sustained late-summer display. Plants prefer full sun and do best in soils that are moist but well-drained, including sandy, loamy or clay types. In the UK it is fully hardy (H7).

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Heliopsis helianthoides

About the genus

Heliopsis is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, native to dry prairies in North and South America. The sunflower-like composite flowerheads are usually yellow, up to 8 cm (3 in) in diameter, and are borne in summer. Species are commonly called ox-eye or oxeye.

Wikipedia contributors, "Heliopsis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Heliopsis

In the garden

Heliopsis helianthoides is a herbaceous perennial from parts of the United States, recorded in states such as Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Connecticut and Iowa, and is commonly sold under names such as smooth ox-eye or false sunflower. It typically grows to around 1.5 m and produces yellow, sunflower-like heads during July to September, giving reliable late-summer colour. Site selection should favour full sun and soils that are well drained yet can retain some moisture; the species tolerates sandy, loamy and clay soils as long as water does not stand around the roots. In USDA terms it spans zones 3–9, and in Britain its H7 rating means it is fully hardy and can be left outdoors through winter without special winter protection. Use Heliopsis helianthoides at the rear of mixed perennial borders or in groups where a tall summer-flowering presence is required. Allow space for its mature height when planting so individual clumps are not crowded. The extended July–September flowering period makes it a practical choice where sustained yellow blooms are needed for late-summer structure and pollinator support.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Heliopsis

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Sandy, Loamy, Clay

Soil moisture

Well-drained, Moist but well-drained

UK hardiness

H7

Plant details

Heliopsis helianthoides size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Height

1.5 m

Native to

Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Connecticut, Iowa

Frequently asked questions