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
- Heliopsis helianthoides 'Helios Sunset'

- Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Benzinggold'North American ox-eye 'Benzinggold'

- Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Prima Ballerina'

- Heliopsis laevis

- Heliopsis helianthoides Orange Marble ('Vensgc') (v)
- Heliopsis helianthoides Sole Magico ('Inhelsomag')
- Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra Punto Rosso ('Inhelpunro')