False Sunflower Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Benzinggold'

Names

• Family

  Asteraceae.

• Synonyms

  False Sunflower, Rough Heliopsis, Summer Sun, Ox Eye, Smooth Oxeye, Benzing Gold.

• Common names

  There are no known synonyms for Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Benzinggold'; the provided name is the only accepted scientific name for this specific cultivar.

Toxicity

• To humans

  False sunflower is generally not considered toxic to humans. There is no notable information regarding poisoning from ingestion of this plant, as it is not typically known for being harmful if accidentally consumed in small quantities. However, it is always prudent to avoid ingesting any part of ornamental plants due to the potential for individual sensitivities or allergic reactions.

• To pets

  False sunflower is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. Symptoms of poisoning are not typically reported for animals that ingest this plant. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion in significant quantities could potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset due to irritation or sensitivity. Always keep an eye on your pet's behavior and consult a veterinarian if you observe unusual symptoms after ingestion of any plant material.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  4 feet (1.22 meters)

• Spread

  2 feet (0.61 meters)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  3

• Native area

  North America

General Benefits

• Attracts Pollinators: Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Benzinggold', commonly known as Ox Eye, is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, Ox Eye is drought-resistant, making it ideal for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
• Low Maintenance: The plant typically requires minimal care once established, reducing the need for frequent watering, fertilizing, or pruning.
• Long Blooming Period: Ox Eye produces flowers from early summer to fall, providing extended color and interest in the garden.
• Wildlife Habitat: This variety of Heliopsis offers shelter and food for wildlife, contributing to biodiversity.
• Decorative Cut Flowers: The bright, sunflower-like blooms make excellent cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
• Soil Erosion Control: The dense root system of Heliopsis helianthoides helps stabilize soil, preventing erosion in garden slopes and banks.
• Landscape Versatility: Ox Eye can be used in a variety of landscape designs, including borders, wildflower meadows, and as a backdrop for shorter plants.
• Fast Growth: The plant grows relatively quickly, which can be advantageous for creating impact and filling in garden spaces.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Benzinggold', commonly known as false sunflower, can be used as a natural dye source. The flowers produce a yellow to gold dye suitable for coloring fabrics and yarns.
• False sunflower petals are sometimes used as a natural confetti alternative in outdoor celebrations due to their biodegradable properties and bright, cheerful color.
• The stalks and stems of false sunflower can be dried and used in rustic crafts, such as wreath making, providing a natural look and texture.
• Its dense growth habit makes false sunflower a suitable plant for creating informal hedges or privacy screens in a garden setting.
• False sunflower's robust roots can help with soil stabilization and prevent erosion on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
• The nectar and pollen-rich flowers can be integrated into pollinator gardens to support biodiversity and attract native bee species.
• Seed heads of the false sunflower, if left to dry on the plant, provide food for birds in the fall and winter months.
• The statuesque form and height of the false sunflower can be employed in garden design as a natural foil to highlight smaller plants in front of it.
• The plant can be used in educational settings, such as schools and nature centers, to teach students about plant growth cycles and the role of native flora in local ecosystems.
• In photography, false sunflower can be used as a photogenic backdrop or focal point due to its bright blooms and attractiveness to insects like butterflies.

Feng Shui

The plant False Sunflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The plant False Sunflower is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Resilience: The False Sunflower, as Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Benzinggold' is commonly known, is a hardy plant that can withstand a variety of soil conditions and climates, symbolizing the ability to persist and thrive through adversity.
• Energy and Warmth: Its bright, sunflower-like blooms exude a sense of vibrancy and warmth, representing positivity, happiness, and the nurturing warmth of the sun.
• Adoration and Loyalty: Much like sunflowers, the False Sunflower is often associated with adoration and loyalty, symbolizing deep, consistent, and unwavering affection.
• Longevity: The plant's ability to bloom for an extended period during the summer months is often seen as a symbol of long life and endurance.
• Optimism: With its bright and cheery flowers turning toward the sun, the False Sunflower suggests optimism and a positive outlook on life.