Heliopsis helianthoides 'Summer Eclipse'1 / 5

Key characteristics

Family
Asteraceae
Height
2-3 feet tall
Width
1-2 feet wide
Flower color
Dark orange and yellow bicolor
Foliage color
Dark green with purple-bronze tones
Bloom time
Mid-summer to early fall
Light
Full sun
Water
Moderate
Maintenance
Low; deadhead for extended blooming
Growing zone
USDA Zones 4-9
Wildlife
Attracts butterflies and bees

Perennials

Heliopsis helianthoides 'Summer Eclipse'

Summer Eclipse False Sunflower

Heliopsis helianthoides 'Summer Eclipse' showcases two-tone blooms in rich orange and dark golden yellow, creating a lively contrast with its unique dark burgundy-green foliage. Each flower resembles a small sunflower, with rounded, warm-toned petals surrounding a deep brown center, bringing a bold, cheerful touch to summer gardens. Derived from the North American native false sunflower, this cultivar captures the charm of wildflower landscapes while adding a colorful accent to mixed borders.

Light
Full sun
Water
Moderate
Bloom time
Mid-summer to early fall

Works well in

  • Borders
  • Sun Gardens
  • Pollinator Gardens
  • Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Asters · Catmint · Coreopsis · Bearded irises · Bee balm · Yarrow

Design tip

Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. In full sun it holds its shape best, and grouping several together keeps the color strong enough to be seen from across the garden.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.

More perennials