Heliopsis helianthoïdes Loraine Sunshine

The foliage of Heliopsis helianthoides Loraine Sunshine is particularly bright, with its white laminae entirely veined with dark green, so much so that it appears variegated. Additionally, it does not scorch in the sun. Its flowers are shiny and golden, single, with a brown central disc, and they rise to the top of tall, strong, and rigid stems. This vigorous perennial, which is rather rare among variegated plants, will brighten up the short autumn days. It is both similar in appearance and closely related to Helianthus, the famous sunflower. It is an undemanding plant, suitable for any well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. Its vigour and brightness deserve a prominent place in borders or rustic compositions.

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Heliopsis helianthoides Loraine Sunshine belongs to the Asteraceae family. Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra, from which it originates, is native to North America, where it is generally found in open woodlands and tall-grass prairies, less commonly along roadsides. The cultivar Loraine Sunshine is a non-running, woody-based perennial plant. It forms a spreading bushy clump, composed of numerous sturdy stems, reaching a height of 90cm (35in) and spreading 60cm (24in) wide. Its growth rate is moderate to fast. The deciduous foliage extends to the top of the stems, it is rough, with wide lanceolate and dentate leaves, somewhat cordate. It is truly distinctive: white with pronounced veins, dark green. Flowering occurs from June to September. The inflorescence appears at the end of branched stems, composed of several heads (heads) themselves formed by flowers that appear single, ligulate, bright yellow (these are the 'petals') and brownish florets forming the disc.

Trends are quite inscrutable because the upright habit of these perennials, their long flowering period, and their low requirements are all keys that should open the door to every garden... but no! However, all specialists agree that they are excellent plants. 25 years ago, Alan Bloom, a famous perennial plant breeder in England, said: "These are certainly the last plants I would part with if I decided to eliminate the colour yellow from the borders in my garden." We have planted this marvel in the yellow section of our large mixed border, at the edge to make it stand out, paired with Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola'.