Heliopsis helianthoides 'early sunflower'

Heliopsis helianthoides, also known as early sunflower or false sunflower is a perennial flowering plant that is native to North America. It typically grows to a height of 2-4 feet, and has large, yellow daisy-like flowers, typically measuring 2-3 inches across. The flowers are a golden-yellow color and have a central dark brown or black eye. The petals are arranged in a ray pattern, radiating out from the center of the flower and are arranged in large clusters at the top of a protruding stem. The flowers are long-lasting and bloom from mid-summer to fall. The leaves are green and lance-shaped.

The leaf arrangement on Heliopsis helianthoides is opposite. This means that the leaves are arranged in pairs along the stem, with one leaf at each node (the point where the leaf stem attaches to the main stem). The leaves are lance-shaped and have a glossy green color. They are typically 2-6 inches long and 1-2 inches wide, with serrated or toothed edges. The leaves are usually hairless and slightly rough to the touch. They are medium to dark green and have a glossy appearance. The leaf arrangement helps the plant to efficiently use sunlight, and also the opposite leaves allow for better water and nutrient uptake.

Heliopsis helianthoides prefers well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, but it prefers moist, fertile soil. It is also tolerant of drought, but the plant will be more floriferous with regular watering. The plant can grow in soil pH ranging from 5.0 to 7.0. Early sunflower is a native wildflower that is well adapted to the growing conditions of North America, it is easy to grow and can be used as a garden or wildflower meadow perennial.