Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Bleeding Hearts'

RHS Plant Profile
North American ox-eye 'Bleeding Hearts'
Plants for pollinators
Herbaceous Perennial

A clump-forming, herbaceous perennial to 1.2m tall, with ovate leaves, purple-flushed when young. From late summer to early autumn it bears single, red flowerheads that age to coppery orange. A good plant to attract pollinating insects and also makes a long-lasting cut flowers

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Heliopsis are robust perennials with stiff, erect stems; opposite, lance-shaped leaves and showy rich yellow to orange flowers similar to sunflowers
Name Status
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Divide every 2-3 years to maintain vigour. May require staking in exposed sites

Propagation

Propagate by seed, division, or basal cuttings in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Prairie planting
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Cut back stems to ground level in early winter

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free