Helenium autumnale 'Bandera'
Helenium autumnale 'Bandera' is a compact and vibrant perennial that produces rich red petals edged in golden yellow surrounding a prominent dark center. Blooming from midsummer into early fall, it brings strong seasonal color and a long lasting display to sunny gardens while supporting pollinators during peak activity.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average to moist well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This plant is a cultivated selection of Helenium autumnale, a species native to North America that is commonly found in meadows and along streambanks where soils remain consistently moist.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts Monarchs, Painted Ladies, and sulphur butterflies which feed on nectar during its extended bloom period.
Bees
- Supports native bees and bumblebees which gather nectar and pollen from the central cones.
Birds
- Provides seeds that may be visited by small songbirds later in the season.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to allow for good air circulation and full clump development.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for sunny borders, pollinator gardens, and naturalistic plantings where bold late season color is desired.
Companion Plants
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds upright structure and warm seasonal color that complements the red and gold blooms.
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Extends pollinator interest and pairs well in both form and bloom timing.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Reinforces warm color tones and provides a reliable midsummer to fall display.
- Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' (Goldenrod) - Brings height and bright late season blooms that continue supporting pollinators.
- Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' (Switchgrass) - Offers vertical texture and red tinged foliage that echoes the tones of Bandera.