Overview
Inula acaulis is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Inula, part of the Asteraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Inula acaulis grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates clay and loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and wildflower meadow.
About
Inula acaulis is a bushy herbaceous perennial belonging to the genus Inula, which is known for its substantial basal foliage and yellow daisy-like flower heads with slender ray florets. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and is suited to south-, east-, or west-facing aspects in both exposed and sheltered locations. It prefers moist but well-drained clay or loam soils with a pH that can be acid, alkaline, or neutral. Hardy to UK zone H6, it is best planted after the last frost in fertile soil and is suitable for cottage gardens, wildlife gardens, and wildflower meadows, with its main interest in spring.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Inula
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Inula acaulis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Inula acaulis
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in autumn or spring. Take basal softwood cuttings in spring. Propagate by seed in spring; germinate at 10°C (50°F)
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Inula acaulis?
Inula acaulis prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Inula acaulis need?
Inula acaulis grows best in clay and loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Inula acaulis hardy in the UK?
Inula acaulis 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 Inula acaulis?
Propagate by division in autumn or spring. Take basal softwood cuttings in spring. Propagate by seed in spring; germinate at 10°C (50°F).
More in the Inula genus
- Inula crithmoidesgolden samphire

- Inula ensifolia 'Compacta'

- Inula ensifolia 'Gold Star'

- Inula heterolepis

- Inula orientalis 'Grandiflora'

- Inula obtusifolia