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Annual Biennial

Helianthus mollis
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

ashy sunflower

A clump-forming perennial to around 120cm in height with downy, grey-green pointed leaves. Large, bright yellow flowers with dark centres appear from late summer into autumn

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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Yellow Green Grey Silver
Autumn Yellow Green Grey Silver
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy, Clump forming
Genus

Helianthus can be tall, erect annuals, tuberous or rhizomatous perennials, with coarse simple leaves and large daisy-like flower-heads

Name status

Correct

Plant range
USA

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, neutral to alkaline, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed in spring or division in autumn. Divide every three years to maintain vigour. See propagate by seed (sown indoors) or

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut back to the ground in autumn or leave for birds to eat the seeds

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews and sclerotinia diseases

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