Inula helenium
elecampane
A robust perennial to 2m tall, with toothed, narrowly elliptic leaves to 60cm long, white-hairy beneath, and yellow daisy-like flower heads to 9cm wide, with narrow rays and a darker centre
Other common names
allicampaneelf dock
see moreelf wort
else dock
enula campana
horse elder
horse heal
scabwort
wild sunflower
yellow starwort
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Inula may be annuals, herbaceous perennials or sub-shrubs, moslty with large basal leaves and daisy-like yellow flower-heads, often with narrow ray-florets
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- W & C Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
It prefers deep, rich, moisture-retentive soil in full sun or partial shade. May need support if planted in windy situation
Propagation
Propagate by division in autumn or spring. Take basal softwood cuttings in spring. Propagate by seed in spring; germinate at 10°C (50°F)
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Trim back faded foliage in the autumn or early spring
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.