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 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
Where is the best place to plant Heliopsis helianthoides?
Heliopsis helianthoides prefers full sun.
What soil does Heliopsis helianthoides need?
Heliopsis helianthoides is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How big does Heliopsis helianthoides grow?
Heliopsis helianthoides reaches a height of 1.5 m.
Is Heliopsis helianthoides hardy in the UK?
Heliopsis helianthoides has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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More in the Heliopsis genus
- Heliopsis scabra
- Heliopsis scabra 'Golden Plume'
- Heliopsis scabra 'Incomparabilis'False Sunflower
- Heliopsis scabra 'Light of Loddon'
- Heliopsis scabra 'Patula'