Heliopsis helianthoides, False Sunflower


Not true sunflowers, so False Sunflower rays are fertile.

The False Sunflower, Heliopsis helianthoides, is a variable species seen in various habitat. At Shelterwood, it grows at the edges of woodlands, but it is often seen in full sun within prairie restorations. It appears to enjoy a bit more moisture than true sunflowers, but should get along well in a season of average moisture. Fed on by birds and insects, this one is an excellent addition to the woodland edge or prairie planting.

Blooms: golden yellow, July to freeze
Height: 3 to 5 feet, taller with more moisture
Conditions: sun to pt sun, moist-medium to medium-dry soils

It is not uncommon to find False Sunflower with double flowers 


The geometry of the disk is extraordinary