Heliophila Plant Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

Article by Dean Ravenscroft, Ph.D. - Updated 19th Oct 2023

In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Heliophila plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.

Cape Stock, Wild Flax, & Sun Lovers: Cultivation & Garden Use

The Heliophila genus contains perennials, hardy annuals and half hardy annuals that reach from 30 to 90 cm in height.

They flower from the end of spring through to the beginning of autumn. Heliophila Plants carry flowers of pink, blue, white or yellow; there are many varieties that have two colored flowers.

Some common names for Heliophila include Cape Stock and Sun Lovers.

Heliophila scoparia by Peter Baker; creative commons.

How to Grow Sun Lovers (Heliophila Plants)

It is best to just cover the seeds of Heliophila once sown. They should be plant from the beginning of spring (before the last frost) and sowing continues for a few weeks to supply successive blooms.

Heliophila Plants should be grown in a sunny part of the garden that has good drainage, the soil type is not too important.

If you first plan to grow Sun lovers indoors as seedlings, then they should be started about eight weeks before planning to put outside.

It should take from two to three weeks to germinate at a temperature of 18 degrees centigrade. The plants should be put out following the last frost of the spring; you may like to make successive plantings to maintain a continuous bloom.

Caring for Sunlovers and other Heliophila Plants in the Garden

Once you have seedlings they should be spaced at between 15 and 90 cm depending upon the size of the variety. The bigger varieties of Heliophila may require some support.

Heliophila photograph by Peter Baker; creative commons.

Further Heliophila Information for Gardeners

What are Heliophila plants?

Heliophila is a genus of plants in the Brassicaceae or mustard family. They are native to the southern parts of Africa.

The genus is about 80 to 150 strong. It is named for its flowers which open towards the sun. The plants are annuals or perennial, and grow from 12 to 36 inches (30 to 90 cm) tall.

The flower gets its name from the Greek word Helios, which means sun, and Phile, which means to love. Thus, the flower was so named because it loves the sun.

Flowers are beautiful and come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. They bloom in the late spring and early summer.

The flowers of Heliophila grow as racemes or atop thin springy stems. This genus has the greatest range of flower type in the Brassica, but four petaled varieties, with a white or yellow heart, are common.

The leaves usually lack hairs (glabrous) and plants often have a strong smell.

Heliophila plants are drought tolerant and easy to grow. Just avoid a clay soil.

Plants can be direct seeded into the garden. Alternatively, start indoors and transplant later. They prefer full sun and a well-drained soil.

They are often used in wildlife gardens and for wildflower meadows, with the flowers being pollinated by bees and butterflies,. This also makes them a beautiful addition to a summer garden.

There are many reasons for growing Heliophila in the garden. The flower is drought tolerant and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions. It is also easy to grow and propagate. Heliophila seeds provide a valuable source of food for birds and other wildlife. The plants can also be used in flower arrangements or dried for potpourri.

More FAQs

How many members does the Heliophila genus have?

The Heliophila genus consists of around 150 species, many of which exhibit beautiful blue or purple flowers.

Do members of Heliophila make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Yes, some Heliophila species are cultivated for their delicate, vibrant flowers and make a good addition to gardens, especially in sunny areas.

Which Heliophila species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

Among the most commonly grown species is Heliophila coronopifolia, or Blue Eyed Daisy, loved for its beautiful, vibrant blue flowers.

Are members of the Heliophila plant genus fragrant?

While not all species are fragrant, Heliophila is more known for its visual appeal than scent.

What is the perfect location to grow Heliophila?

Heliophila species generally prefer sunny locations with well-drained soil.

Is Heliophila invasive in the USA, if so in which states?

Currently, Heliophila is not listed as invasive in the USA.

How do I remove Heliophila plants from my garden?

To remove Heliophila, dig up the entire plant, making sure to remove all the roots to prevent re-growth.

Summary

The Heliophila genus is part of the Brassicaceae family, and includes several species of flowering plants. Originating primarily in South Africa, these plants are known for their delicate, brightly colored flowers. Heliophila coronopifolia is one example of a commonly grown species.

Plant Heliophila in a sunny location with well-drained soil. The plants need regular watering but ensure the soil is not waterlogged. They are frost-sensitive and prefer a warmer climate. Propagation is usually done by seeds, which are sown in the spring or early summer.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Heliophila plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Money plant and Ionopsidium plants.