False Sunflower

(Heliopsis buphthalmoides)

False Sunflower (Heliopsis buphthalmoides)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Heliopsis buphthalmoides image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Heliopsis buphthalmoides, commonly known as False Sunflower, is a perennial herb that is native to a wide range of habitats including prairies, meadows, open woodlands, and forest edges from North America to South America. It is found from Mexico in states such as Durango and Sinaloa, south to Chiapas, throughout all seven countries of Central America, and in western South America including Colombia, Venezuela, Perú, and Bolivia. This species is adaptable to various elevations and environmental conditions.

False Sunflower typically grows to a height of 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters) with a similar spread. It has a bushy, upright habit and produces daisy-like flowers with bright yellow petals and a central brown or purplish-brown disk. The flowers bloom from early summer to fall and are highly attractive to pollinators. The plant’s resilience and long blooming period make it a popular choice for ornamental use in borders, wildflower gardens, and as cut flowers. In cultivation, Heliopsis buphthalmoides prefers full sun to part shade, well-drained soil, and moderate water. It is relatively low-maintenance but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot diseases. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage additional blooming and prevent self-seeding, which can be aggressive in some conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Groundcover, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

native to a wide range of habitats including prairies, meadows, open woodlands, and forest edges from North America to South America

Other Names

Common Names: False Sunflower, Oxeye Daisy

Scientific Names: , Heliopsis buphthalmoides, Acmella buphthalmoides, Acmella buphthalmoides, Acmella mutisii, Acmella occidentalis, Acmella oppositifolia, Andrieuxia mexicana, Anthemis americana, Anthemis buphthalmoides

GBIF Accepted Name: