False sunflower

Description

It belongs to the aster family (Asteraceae). This perennial is native to North America. It is a tall plant, reaching 120 cm, forming a lush, broad, bushy clump, although it takes a few years to reach its full size. It has roughly hairy, egg-shaped, pointed leaves and golden-yellow, semi-double flower heads up to 10 cm across, borne at the tips of the stems and in bloom from July to September.

Heliopsis is a border perennial and indispensable as a cut flower. It stays fresh in a vase for a long time, and flowers cut when fully open can also be dried and used later in winter bouquets.

Requirements

False sunflower is undemanding, which is why it is recommended for beginner gardeners. It can grow in the same place for many years. It prefers sunny, warm, sheltered and moderately moist positions. Avoid soils that dry out quickly.

Propagation

It is propagated from seed and by dividing large clumps in autumn.

Care

Regularly cutting off faded stems can extend flowering until October.