False Sunflower Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Light of Loddon'
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as 'Light of Loddon' is a striking ornamental perennial that stands out in any garden setting. This cultivar is characterized by its daisy-like flowers that boast a beautiful array of golden yellow petals radiating around a central disk. The flowers are vibrant and showy, catching the eye from a distance with their sunny hues. Each flower presents multiple layers of petals, and the central disk often has a darker, almost orange to brownish shade, contrasting with the golden petals. These composite flowers are reminiscent of sunflowers in their shape and coloration, hence the common resemblance to the sun in its name. The foliage of 'Light of Loddon' complements its cheerful flowers with rough-textured leaves that are deep green, providing a lush backdrop for the blooms. The leaves are lance-shaped, with pronounced veining and serrated edges, giving them a slightly coarse appearance upon close inspection. Oftentimes, these leaves clasp the sturdy stems of the plant, which help support the weight of the blooms. The overall impression of this plant is one of hardiness and vibrancy, with its flowers creating a stunning visual display from early to mid-summer, often continuing their show until the fall.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
False Sunflower, Rough Heliopsis, Smooth Oxeye, Oxeye Sunflower
Common names
Heliopsis helianthoides 'Loraine Sunshine', Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Loraine Sunshine'.
ToxicityTo humans
False sunflower, which is the common name for Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Light of Loddon', is not known to be toxic to humans. However, like with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, and it is generally advised not to consume parts of ornamental plants due to the potential for adverse reactions.
To pets
False sunflower is not specifically listed as toxic to pets. However, pets, particularly cats and dogs, might experience different sensitivities to plants than humans. Even non-toxic plants can cause gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions in some pets if ingested. If any worrying symptoms arise after a pet has ingested part of a false sunflower, it is important to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Provides nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, helping to support local ecosystems.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, the plant is quite drought resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond initial planting and occasional watering, making it ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Long Bloom Time: Flowers from early summer to early fall, providing extended visual interest in the garden.
- Native Plant: As a plant native to North America, it can thrive in local conditions and support native wildlife more effectively than non-native species.
- Erosion Control: Its root system helps to stabilize soil, preventing erosion especially in sloped or disturbed areas.
- Landscape Versatility: Can be used in borders, wildflower meadows, or as a cut flower due to its bright, sunflower-like blooms.
- Deer Resistance: Tends to be relatively resistant to browsing by deer, making it more likely to survive and thrive in areas with deer populations.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Creating natural dyes: The flowers and leaves of the Heliopsis helianthoides can be used to create yellow dyes for fabrics and textiles.
- Photography backdrop: Its vibrant blooms can serve as a beautiful, natural backdrop for outdoor photography sessions.
- Crafting pressed flowers: The plant's blossoms can be pressed and used in crafts such as bookmarks, greeting cards, or framed botanical art.
- Companion planting: This plant can attract beneficial insects that help pollinate other plants in the garden, improving overall garden health.
- Garden border design: It's commonly used in garden borders for its height and ability to stand erect, creating a natural fence or boundary.
- Maze creation: Due to their height and dense growth, these plants can be used to create garden mazes or labyrinth designs.
- Educational plant studies: Heliopsis helianthoides can be used in educational settings for studying plant growth, pollination, and other botanical sciences.
- Floral arrangements: The long-lasting flowers can be used in fresh or dried floral arrangements, adding a touch of brightness to interior décor.
- Wildlife shelter: The thick foliage can provide shelter for small wildlife such as insects and birds within a garden setting.
- Soil erosion control: Their root system can help stabilize soil in areas susceptible to erosion, such as hillsides or riverbanks.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiFalse sunflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityFalse sunflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: The 'Light of Loddon' variety of Heliopsis helianthoides, commonly known as rough oxeye, is a hardy plant that thrives in various conditions, symbolizing the ability to endure and thrive despite challenges.
- Adaptability: Rough oxeye grows in a wide range of soils and settings, symbolizing the quality of adaptability and versatility in life.
- Energy: With its bright, sun-like flowers, rough oxeye represents energy and vitality, adding a vibrant touch to any garden.
- Cheerfulness: The sunny appearance of the rough oxeye's blooms conveys a sense of happiness and cheerfulness, lifting spirits and brightening the environment.
WaterThe False Sunflower should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time, which equates to roughly 0.6 gallons for a small plant. During hot or dry spells, it may require water twice a week. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent over-watering and root rot. Water the plant at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Adjust the watering schedule during the spring and autumn when less water may be required due to cooler temperatures and increased rainfall.
LightThe False Sunflower thrives in full sunlight, meaning it requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sun daily to bloom optimally. The best spot for this plant is an open area without shade from trees or buildings, where it can receive unfiltered sunlight throughout the day.
TemperatureThe False Sunflower can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but grows best when the temperature is between 50°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F and maximum temperatures up to approximately 90°F. However, providing a consistent temperature closer to the ideal range will promote healthier growth and flowering.
PruningPruning the False Sunflower encourages bushier growth and more blooms, and can help prevent disease by increasing air circulation. Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continued blooming through the season. Cutting back the plant by about one-third in late spring can delay blooming but result in a denser and more controlled plant shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFalse sunflower 'Light of Loddon' thrives in well-drained loamy soil enriched with compost. It prefers a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A balanced mix with garden soil, compost, and peat or leaf mold will create a fertile, airy substrate conducive to growth.
RepottingFalse sunflower 'Light of Loddon' is typically planted in the ground and does not require frequent repotting. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years or when the root system outgrows the pot.
Humidity & MistingFalse sunflower 'Light of Loddon' is quite adaptable and does not require a specific humidity level; it thrives in average outdoor conditions and can tolerate dry to moderate humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, avoid soggy soil, fertilize monthly.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and water moderately.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Light of Loddon', commonly known as False Sunflower 'Light of Loddon', begins with seed germination which typically occurs in the spring when soil temperatures warm. Following germination, seedlings establish themselves, developing a root system and a rosette of leaves. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage where it grows taller and develops more leaves on sturdy stems throughout the spring and early summer. The reproductive phase follows, during which flower buds form and blossom into the characteristic bright yellow, daisy-like flowers by mid to late summer, attracting pollinators. After pollination, the plant produces seeds in the late summer to early fall, which are dispersed by wind, wildlife, or human activity. Finally, the plant enters dormancy in the winter, with the herbaceous parts dying back, while the root system survives to regenerate the next spring, completing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Light of Loddon', commonly known as the false sunflower 'Light of Loddon', is best propagated by division in the spring. This is a straightforward method involving digging up the plant and carefully splitting the clump into smaller sections, each with a share of roots and shoots. These divisions should then be replanted promptly at the same soil depth they were growing previously, ensuring they are well watered to help with establishment. Through division, the false sunflower 'Light of Loddon' can be quickly multiplied and will generally return to strong growth rapidly, maintaining the health and vigor of the parent plant.
