Helianthus × laetiflorus
showy sunflower
A rhizomatous, clump-forming perennial to 2m tall with dark green, narrowly-ovate and toothed leaves. Bright yellow flowerheads with dark centres,10-12cm in diameter, are borne from late summer into autumn
Other common names
perennial sunflowerprairie sunflower
see morerough-leaved sunflower
stiff sunflower
Synonyms
Helianthus scaberrimusHelianthus rigidus misapplied
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Yellow | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Helianthus can be tall, erect annuals, tuberous or rhizomatous perennials, with coarse simple leaves and large daisy-like flower-heads
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Requires a moderately fertile, moist but well-drained, alkaline to neutral soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division. Divide established clumps every 2-4 years to both increase plants and retain vigour. See sowing seeds indoors for further advice
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back old stems after flowering as they die down for the winter
Pests
Susceptible to slugs
Diseases
Powdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases may be a problem
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.