Heliopsis 'Sunstruck' is a compact clump forming false sunflower that features striking variegated foliage with creamy yellow margins surrounding dark green centers topped with bright golden daisy like flowers. Blooming throughout summer, it maintains a tidy upright shape without flopping, making it especially attractive for small space gardens and containers. This cultivar is also notable for its excellent mildew resistance and extended blooming season often flowering until early fall.
Height & Spread: 12 - 18 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, average to dry soils
Watering Needs: Moderate; tolerates drought once established
Deer Resistance: Deer and rabbit resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from North American native Heliopsis helianthoides. While 'Sunstruck' itself is a garden selection, it maintains the ecological value of the species and is well suited for native-style plantings and pollinator gardens.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Visited by Monarchs, Painted Ladies, Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, and other nectar seeking butterflies throughout summer and fall.
Bees
- Supports a wide range of native bees including bumblebees, sweat bees, leafcutter bees, and honeybees, which are drawn to its abundant pollen.
Moths
- Evening flying moths such as the Yellow Collared Scape Moth and the Wavy Lined Emerald have been observed nectaring on false sunflowers.
Birds
- Goldfinches and other seed eating songbirds feed on the ripened seed heads if left standing into fall and winter.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart for full coverage and airflow around the compact mounds.
Landscape Placement:
- Best used in containers, pollinator borders, or small garden beds where its tidy habit and long bloom period can be appreciated. Also excellent for edging and front of the border placements.
Companion Plants
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - Compact and fine textured with bright yellow flowers that harmonize with Heliopsis while blooming in sync.
- Gaillardia aristata (Blanket Flower) - Offers warm red and orange blooms and shares a similar drought tolerant sunny disposition.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' (Wood Sage) - Vertical spires of purple blue flowers provide contrast in form and color.
- Allium schoenoprasum (Chives) - Edible and ornamental with purple flower heads that complement the golden daisy blooms.
- Nepeta x faassenii 'Walker's Low' (Catmint) - Cascading habit and long blooming lavender flowers add softness and fragrance nearby.