Overview

Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bonfire Sunset' is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Heliopsis, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bonfire Sunset' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants, prairie planting and wildlife gardens.

About

Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bonfire Sunset' is a bushy, herbaceous perennial belonging to the Asteraceae family. Like other Heliopsis, it features upright stems and paired lanceolate leaves, with prominent flowers reminiscent of sunflowers. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun and is suitable for various soil types, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, provided the soil is moist but well-drained. Hardy to UK zone H6, it is ideal for cottage and informal gardens, patio containers, prairie planting, and wildlife gardens, offering interest throughout spring and summer.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Heliopsis

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bonfire Sunset' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bonfire Sunset'

Propagation
Propagate by division in autumn or spring or propagate by basal cuttings in spring
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to slugs
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bonfire Sunset'?

Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bonfire Sunset' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bonfire Sunset' need?

Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bonfire Sunset' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bonfire Sunset' hardy in the UK?

Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bonfire Sunset' has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bonfire Sunset'?

Propagate by division in autumn or spring or propagate by basal cuttings in spring.

More in the Heliopsis genus

Browse all Heliopsis