About

A clump-forming, herbaceous perennial to 1.2m tall, with ovate leaves, purple-flushed when young. A good plant to attract pollinating insects and also makes a long-lasting cut flowers. From late summer to early autumn it bears single, red flowerheads that age to coppery orange.

About the genus

Heliopsis are robust perennials with stiff, erect stems; opposite, lance-shaped leaves and showy rich yellow to orange flowers similar to sunflowers

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Divide every 2-3 years to maintain vigour. May require staking in exposed sites
PruningCut back stems to ground level in early winter
PropagationPropagate by seed, division, or basal cuttings in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free