Heliopsis helianthoides Sparkling Contrast

Heliopsis helianthoïdes 'Sparkling Contrast' is a variety of remarkably contrasting false sunflower, with dark green foliage that enhances the vibrant colours of the flowers. They bloom in abundance from summer to autumn, carried by sturdy, dark stems that do not require staking. Plant Heliopsis, these sunflower cousins are excellent perennials for wildflower beds, both hardy and unpretentious, bringing joy to any garden, even for beginners!

Heliopsis belongs to the Asteraceae family. H. helianthoïdes var. scabra, from which this beautiful hybrid variety 'Sparkling Contrast' originates, is a botanical species native to North America. In nature, it is commonly found in open woodlands and tall grass prairies. Heliopsis is very hardy, heat-resistant, and relatively drought-tolerant.

Heliopsis 'Sparkling Contrast' is a rhizomatous perennial plant with woody roots, non-invasive and non-spreading. It forms a bushy clump that does not spread much over time, with many solid and branched leafy stems. The overall height is approximately 60cm (24in), with a spread of 20-30cm (8-12in). Its growth rate is moderate to fast. Flowering occurs from July to October if faded flowers are regularly removed and the soil remains slightly moist. The inflorescence appears at the tip of each stem, consisting of several large heads or capitules measuring 5 to 6cm (2in) wide. The capitules bear two rows of bicoloured ray florets, bright orange towards the centre and golden yellow towards the tips. They are arranged in a collar around a beautiful central disk that turns reddish-brown. After the flowers, which are highly visited by insects, seeds are produced and loved by birds. The foliage extends to the top of the stems, initially tinged with purple-brown, then turning very dark green as it ages. The leaves, 10cm (4in) long, are lanceolate, somewhat cordate, and have more or less dentate margins. The deciduous vegetation disappears in winter and regrows every spring from the stump.

Trends can be puzzling because the upright habit of Heliopsis, their long flowering period, and their low maintenance requirements are all factors that should make them welcome in any garden. However, that's not always the case! Yet, all experts agree that they are excellent perennial plants. 25 years ago, Alan Bloom, a famous perennial plant breeder in England, said: "These are certainly the last plants I would get rid of if I decided to eliminate the yellow colour from the borders in my garden." Pair Heliopsis 'Sparkling Contrast' with other tall, easy-going perennials such as hybrid mulleins, Buenos Aires verbena, tansies, sneezeweeds, or Pennisetum grasses. Beneficial for pollinators, it is also a great plant for homemade bouquets.