General
This dependable perennial blooms from late summer into fall with numerous bright yellow pin-cushion flowers atop tall stems. It looks superb in mass plantings, or planted between clumps of Crocosmia.
Latin
Helenium autumnale
Family: Asteraceae
Difficulty
Easy
Season & Zone
Exposure: Full sun
Zone: 3-9
Timing
Sow in doors 8-10 weeks before planting out in early spring when the soil is cool and light frost is still possible. Or direct sow in early spring or early autumn. The ideal temperature for germination is 21°C (70°F). Seeds will sprout in 7-10 days.
Starting
Barely cover the seeds with soil. Transplant or thin to stand 60-90cm (24-36″) apart.
Growing
Stake tall growing plants in windy gardens. Ordinary, well-drained soil will do, but Helenium prefers rich soil at a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. Don’t let the soil dry out completely during the growing season, and deadhead regularly once flowering begins. Divide clumps every three to four years to maintain vigour. Division works best in the spring north of Zone 7, and in the fall in southern climes.