Smooth Oxeye

(Heliopsis helianthoides)

Smooth Oxeye (Heliopsis helianthoides)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Heliopsis helianthoides, commonly known as Smooth Oxeye, is a deciduous perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, prairies, and meadows in the Eastern, Central and Intermountain United States. It typically grows to a height of 40–150 cm (16–59 in) and is characterized by its sturdy, upright form. The bright yellow, daisy-like flowers with yellow to brownish disc florets bloom from midsummer to early autumn, adding a splash of color to the garden when many other plants have finished flowering. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators and are quite showy, making it a popular choice for borders and wildflower gardens.

Smooth Oxeye is valued for its long blooming period and its ability to thrive in a range of soil types, though it prefers moist, fertile soil. It is often used in sunny borders, naturalized areas, and pollinator gardens. While it grows best in full sun, it can tolerate light shade. It is generally low-maintenance but may require staking if grown in overly rich soils or partial shade, which can cause it to become leggy. Cultivars offer variations in flower color and plant size. Over time, it can spread via rhizomes to form large clumps, which can be divided in spring or fall. Potential problems include powdery mildew and leaf spots, though these are not usually severe.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 2-4 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, prairies, and meadows in the Eastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Rough Oxeye, False Sunflower

Scientific Names: , Heliopsis helianthoides, Heliopsis helianthoides subsp. helianthoides, Heliopsis helianthoides var. helianthoides, Heliopsis laevis, Heliopsis oppositifolia, Buphthalmum helianthoides, Silphium solidaginoides, Heliopsis helianthodes, Heliopsis scabra var. minor

GBIF Accepted Name: Heliopsis helianthoides (L.) Sw.