HELIOPSIS BLEEDING HEARTS

The attractive dark purple leaves and black stems are toped with fiery red blooms which turn orange-red and on into bronze as they age. A reliable first year flowering perennial which will flower right through the summer and autumn. Wonderful as a cut flower and perfect for the summer border and for containers too. 36”. HP.

Often referred to as False Sunflower, Heliopsis is similar to the perennial Helianthus sunflowers. False Sunflowers are easy to grow and reliable for their long blooming season. Heliopsis is an outstanding cut flower and very attractive to butterflies.

Thinly sow Heliopsis seed from February to May, using a moist, good quality seed compost and a light covering of compost of vermiculite. Place the seed tray in a propagator at a temperature of 18-25C (64-77F) or seal inside a polythene bag to retain moisture until germination occurs, which typically takes up to 30 days. Light aids germination so choose a well lit position for the seed tray.

Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual 3 inch pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Gradually acclimatise them to outdoor conditions for a couple of weeks before planting outdoors into rich, reliably moist, well drained soil, when all danger of frost has passed. Heliopsis plants should be spaced at a distance of 45cm or 18 inches, ideally situated in full sun.