Smooth Oxeye

(Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra)

Smooth Oxeye (Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra, commonly known as Smooth Oxeye, is a deciduous perennial herb native to a range of habitats including prairies, open woodlands, and forest edges in the Central and Northeastern USA and Canada. It typically grows to a height of 4 feet (1.2 meters) and a width of 2 feet (0.6 meters). This plant is characterized by its sturdy, upright stems and rough-textured leaves. The daisy-like flowers are bright yellow with a central disk that may appear brownish as the seeds mature, and they bloom profusely from early summer to fall, adding a long-lasting splash of color to gardens.

Smooth Oxeye is valued for its low maintenance requirements and its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It is often used in wildflower gardens, as a border plant, or in naturalized areas. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade, and while it prefers well-drained soils, it is adaptable to various soil types. This plant is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It can be propagated by division or from seed. Some potential problems include powdery mildew and leaf spots, but these are generally not severe. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease issues.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 3-4 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to prairies, open woodlands, and forest edges

Other Names

Common Names: False Sunflower , Rough Oxeye , Sunflower Heliopsis , Sweet Oxeye , Héliopsis Scabre , Heliopsis

Scientific Names: Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra , Heliopsis helianthoides subsp. scabra , Heliopsis scabra , Heliopsis helianthoides subsp. occidentalis , Heliopsis helianthoides var. occidentalis , Heliopsis canescens , Heliopsis laevis var. scabra , Buphthalmum melissoides , Heliopsis scabra var. intermedia , Heliopsis scabra var. scabra , Kallias dubia

GBIF Accepted Name: Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra (Dunal) Fernald