smooth oxeye Interesting Notes

Beautiful in its simplicity, Heliopsis helianthoides is a common sight in blackland prairies and open woodlands. False sunflower grows 3’-5’ tall and is covered in 2” single gold flowers for eight weeks, peaking in July. Foliage is glaucous and coarse, resembling a clumping shrub-like cross between Helianthus and Rudbeckia. During the summer, you’ll see the flowers blanketed with pollinators and come fall, the seedheads are visited by local songbirds.

H. helianthoides is found in floodplains, fields and at woods' edge in Quebec and British Columbia south to New Mexico and Georgia. It prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun, but tolerates periods of drought and heavy clay soils. One of its best features is how it happily naturalizes in a broad range of soil conditions, from moist to dry.

False sunflower is considered a short-lived perennial and self-sows readily. For best performance, place in a location where seedlings are encouraged. The plant may require staking, especially in light shade situations. To avoid this or to manage the height, trim back foliage in May. We find it to be a long season performer and oxeye excels in naturalized areas or in the back of a native plant border.

Heliopsis helianthoides Growing and Maintenance Tips

H. helianthoides is found in flood plains, fields and at woods' edge in Quebec and British Columbia south to New Mexico and Georgia. Prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun, but may tolerate drought. Propagate by cuttings or division every 2-3 years. Staking is necessary especially in shade. Deadhead to extend the blooming season. Best utilized in the back of a border garden to accent lower growing, brightly colored perennials, as well as wildflower and cutting gardens.

Good Substitutions

Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Burning Hearts'

Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Bleeding Hearts'