This cheerful perennial, which flowers during August and September, is a fantastic choice for Scottish gardens to see us through to autumn. It is also a great source of pollen and nectar for our pollinating friends.
If you have not grown this daisy-like flower before, here is what you need to know to make the most of this head-turning bloom.
Helenium is a sun-lover, so choose a spot in your garden that gets plenty of sunlight. Full sun is ideal, but it can tolerate partial shade as long as it gets at least six hours of sunlight daily for maximum flowering.
If you garden in a windy spot, opt for shorter varieties like ‘Short and Sassy’ or ‘Salsa’ which reach no more than 50cm (1’8”) in height and will therefore not need staking.
Helenium is quite adaptable when it comes to soil, but thrives in a well-drained position which is rich in organic matter. If you garden on heavy clay or sand, work in plenty of compost or well-rotted manure to improve its structure and fertility. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5) is perfect for helenium growth.
Keep the soil consistently moist around the plant, especially during drier summer spells (if we have any). Helenium does not like to dry out completely, so regular watering is key, however you must avoid waterlogging as this can lead to root rot. A good mulching with organic material can help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool.
When it comes to feeding, helenium is not too fussy. A balanced, slow-release fertiliser, applied in the spring when growth starts, will usually suffice. If you prefer organic methods, a top dressing of compost in the spring can provide the necessary nutrients.
To keep your helenium looking its best and to encourage more blooms, deadheading is essential. Simply remove spent flowers by cutting the stem back to the nearest leaf joint. This not only tidies up the plant but promotes a longer flowering period.
As autumn progresses and the blooms begin to fade, you can cut the plant back to ground level in order to prepare for the next growing season.
Every few years, a helenium can be lifted and divided to make new plants for free, this will also re-energise the original plant.
Some varieties of helenium stand out for their hardiness and performance and local nurseries and garden centres currently have a great range in stock. If buying an established plant, look for a bushy example with plenty of stems and green leaves.
Helenium ‘Moerheim Beauty’: known for its rich, orange and coppery-red flowers, this variety is a classic choice that performs well in cooler climates and can grow to 1m (3’3”) high.
Helenium ‘Sahin’s Early Flowerer’: as the name suggests, this variety starts blooming a bit earlier and continues well into autumn, offering a medley of bright orange and yellow flowers on 90cm (2’11”) tall stems.
Helenium ‘Waltraut’: this variety boasts large flowers reaching 8cm (3”) in width in warm orange and golden hues. It is particularly robust, making it ideal for Scottish conditions.
Helenium is a fantastic addition to the garden, bringing vibrant colours and extending the flowering season when many other plants are starting to fade. These cheerful blooms can brighten up your garden from late summer into early autumn, creating a dazzling display that will turn your head year after year.
