Description

Heliopsis helianthoides, commonly called Oxeye Sunflower, is an upright, clump-forming, sunflower-like plant. It typically grows to 3-4′ tall and features daisy-like flowers with yellow-orange rays. A nice long summer bloom is provided by this species, lasting from June to August. This is an easy to grow plant that tolerates very light shade, drought, erosion areas, and a wide range of soils. This species has high wildlife value – it’s relied upon by many types of oligolectic bees (meaning they rely on very specific plants for nectar & pollen); it’s also the host plant for the Painted Lady Butterfly (pictured above), as well as various types of Checkerspots. All-in-all this is a lovely, pollinator-attracting addition to any garden, and it provides a long summer bloom. It really makes a statement in a perennial border, cutting garden, native or wild garden or even as part of a naturalized planting/prairie area.