Heliopsis 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 Heliopsis plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.

False Sunflower, Oxeye Daisy, Gold Root: Cultivation & Garden Use

Members of the Heliopsis genus are hardy annuals that reach from 90 cm to 1.5 m (3 to 5 feet) in height.

They carry large Daisy or Sunflower like flowers of orange or yellow. Due to their large size they make great border flowers, where their weedy leaves can be hidden.

Some of the common names for Heliopsis include False Sunflower, Ox-eye, and Orange Sunflower.

Heliopsis helianthoides - False Sunflower by wackybadger.

How to grow False Sunflower (Heliopsis) Plants in the Garden

When growing False sunflowers it is best to sow the seed outside in either early spring or at the beginning of autumn.

Simply cover the seed with a light dusting of topsoil.

They like to grow in a sunny part of the garden, that has a rich loamy soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5 to 7).

If you would like to first grow False Sunflowers (Heliopsis) indoors as seedlings, then this should be started about 9 or 10 weeks before the seedlings are due to be transplanted into the garden. Which can be either at the beginning of august or before the last frost of spring.

They should be spaced at about 60 to 90 cm (2 to 3 feet) apart.

False sunflower by daryl_mitchell.

Caring for Heliopsis Plants in the garden

Heliopsis plants can grow in dry soil, but it is best to water them occasionally and to apply a light fertilizer in the middle of the growing season.

Once flowering has finished cut back the plats to the ground in the autumn.

If you require more false sunflowers and other Heliopsis Plants in the garden, then they can be divided in the spring. Alternatively take cuttings took from the stems in the summer.

Common Questions

How many members does the Heliopsis genus have?

The Heliopsis genus includes around 20 species, often known for their bright, sunflower-like blooms.

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

Absolutely, Heliopsis species, with their sunflower-like blooms, add a beautiful touch of color to gardens and landscapes.

Which Heliopsis species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

Heliopsis helianthoides, often called False Sunflower, is commonly grown for its bright, cheerful flowers.

Are members of the Heliopsis plant genus fragrant?

Most Heliopsis species are not notably fragrant but are highly appreciated for their visual appeal.

What is the perfect location to grow Heliopsis?

Heliopsis plants prefer full sun to partial shade and a well-drained soil. They are a good choice for borders and wildflower gardens.

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

At present, Heliopsis is not considered invasive in the USA.

How do I remove Heliopsis plants from my garden?

To remove Heliopsis, pull or dig up the plants, ensuring that all root parts are removed to prevent re-growth.

Summary

The Heliopsis genus, known as ox-eye sunflower or false sunflower, belongs to the Asteraceae family. Native to North America, these perennials are appreciated for their sunflower-like blooms during the summer. A popular species is Heliopsis helianthoides.

Heliopsis prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, and it grows well in a variety of soil conditions. The plants are drought-tolerant once established but perform best with regular watering. Propagation is generally through division in the spring or fall.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Heliopsis plants. You may also enjoy my gardening guides on how to grow Chionodoxa, Watsonia plant, and Fumitory plants.