Oxeye Sunflower (Heliopsis Helianthoides)

Oxeye Sunflower

Features and Characteristics

Heliopsis helianthoides, commonly called oxeye sunflower or ox-eye daisy, is an upright, clump-forming, nearly glabrous, sunflower-like, short-lived perennial that is native to eastern and central North America. It typically grows to 3-4′ tall and features daisy-like flowers (2-3” diameter) with yellow-orange rays surrounding brownish-yellow center cones. Flowers bloom throughout summer atop stiff stems clad with ovate, toothed leaves (to 6″ long).

Plants in the genus Heliopsis are both similar in appearance to and closely related to those in the genus Helianthus, the true sunflower. Heliopsis is sometimes commonly called false sunflower.

Genus name comes from the Greek words helios meaning the sun and opsis meaning resembling in allusion to the rayed yellow flower heads.

Specific epithet means resembling the genus Helianthus.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerates drought, but does best if regularly watered. Tolerates a wide range of soils, including poor, dry, and clayey. Tolerates some light shade, but plants are less vigorous and stems need support in heavier shade. Remove spent flowers to extend bloom season. Plant stems may be cut back by 1/3 to 1/2 in late May to reduce overall plant height.

Oxeye Sunflower (Heliopsis Helianthoides) Requirements

Hardiness zone	3 - 9
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to aphids. Taller plants may need staking or other support.

Uses

Provides long summer bloom for the perennial border or cutting garden. Also effective in a native plant or wild garden or as part of a naturalized planting or prairie area.

Oxeye Sunflower (Heliopsis Helianthoides) Details

Common name	Oxeye Sunflower
Botanical name	Heliopsis Helianthoides
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Asteraceae
Hardiness zone	3 - 9
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Orange-Yellow Rays With Brown Center Disks
Flowering period	June - August
Height	3 - 6 Ft.
Width	2 - 4 Ft.