About
Inula racemosa, Indian elecampane, is a clump-forming, deciduous perennial to 2.5 m tall with sturdy, purple-flushed stems bearing elliptic, toothed leaves to 30 cm long. Yellow flowerheads to 6 cm across appear in summer. An imposing and architectural border perennial for a large, sunny or partly shaded 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, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
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 usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
Native toAfghanistan to China
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a deep, fertile, moisture-retentive soil in full sun or partial shade. May require support, see staking perennials
PruningCut back old stems and foliage as the plant dies back for the winter
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistancePowdery mildews may be a problem in conditions that are too dry