Heliopsis 'Burning Hearts'
Heliopsis 'Burning Hearts' is a striking false sunflower with deep burgundy red flower centers surrounded by golden yellow petals that bloom throughout the summer. Its upright habit and rich coloring add bold contrast to sunny perennial borders while providing a long lasting source of nectar for pollinators.
Height & Spread: 36 - 48 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Summer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average to well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is a selected form of Heliopsis helianthoides, a species native to much of North America. 'Burning Hearts' was developed for ornamental qualities including its unique flower color, strong garden performance, and extended bloom period.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts butterflies including Swallowtails, Painted Ladies, and Monarchs which visit the bright blooms for nectar throughout the summer.
Bees
- Supports native bees, bumblebees, and honeybees which gather nectar and pollen from its abundant daisy like flowers.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow room for its upright clumping habit while maintaining good airflow between plants.
Landscape Placement
- Perfect for sunny borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator plantings where its warm colors provide season long interest alongside other summer blooming perennials.
Companion Plants
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' (Meadow Sage) - Adds vertical purple flower spikes that create a strong color contrast with the golden blooms.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' (Purple Coneflower) - Extends the summer pollinator display with large flowers that complement its upright form.
- Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' (Switchgrass) - Provides fine textured foliage and seasonal color that balances the bold flowers.
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Brings additional native pollinator value with lavender blooms and aromatic foliage.
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds native grass texture and fall color while supporting a naturalistic planting style.