Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Inula helenium
Elecampane
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Height
- 3 to 6 feet
- Width
- 2 to 3 feet
- Flower color
- Bright yellow with a daisy-like shape
- Foliage color
- Large, dark green, rough-textured leaves
- Bloom time
- Mid-summer to early fall
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Regular
- Maintenance
- Low; remove faded flowers to encourage continuous blooming
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6 to 10
- Wildlife
- Attracts butterflies; birds drawn to the seed heads in the fall
About this plant
Inula helenium is a tall perennial that produces large, yellow, daisy-like flowers in late summer to early fall. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, it has been historically valued for its medicinal properties. The flowers are typically surrounded by dark green, rough-textured leaves that create a bold presence in the garden. Inula helenium thrives in a variety of environments and is often grown for its ornamental value as well as its historical significance.
The plant's flower heads are made up of numerous long, narrow petals arranged around a central disk, giving it a full, bushy appearance. Its large, lobed leaves contribute to the plant's substantial presence, making it ideal for adding texture to the back of garden borders or wildflower meadows. Once the flowers fade, the seed heads remain, offering winter interest. The plant's roots are thick and fleshy, and it has a strong, pleasant fragrance that further enhances its appeal in the garden.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Bird Gardens · Rain Gardens
Companion plants
Bergenias · Sedums · Columbines · Lungworts · Daylilies · Japanese anemones
Design tip
Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Center for Urban Horticulture.
