About
Inula magnifica, the giant inula, is an upright herbaceous perennial to 2 m tall with branching, purplish stems bearing hairy, ovate leaves to 25 cm long. Several, deep-yellow, daisy-like flowerheads to 15 cm wide are produced in early summer. A dramatic and architectural border perennial for a large, sunny or partly shaded garden position.
About the genus
Inula are annuals, herbaceous perennials and subshrubs with large, often basal leaves and yellow, daisy-like flowerheads, usually with many narrow ray florets. Excellent plants for bold, summer-colour in sunny or partly shaded borders.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow, Cottage and informal garden
Native toCaucasus
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a deep, fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Will also tolerate boggy conditions
PruningCut back old stems and foliage as the plant dies back for the winter
PropagationPropagate by seed in spring, or as soon as ripe in autumn, and sow into containers in a cold frame. Propagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistancePowdery mildews may be a problem in conditions that are too dry