Heliopsis 'Summer Nights'

Heliopsis 'Summer Nights': Sunset Gold on Moody Dark Stems

'Summer Nights' has wine-purple stems and the energy of a patio that won't close. Golden-orange daisies with reddish centres, standing tall above bronze-tinted leaves. LAST CALL WAS AN HOUR AGO. NOBODY LEFT.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Summer Nights'
• Common Name: False Sunflower
• Height: 120–180 cm (4–6 ft)
• Spread: 40–60 cm (16–24 in)
• Flowers: Golden-orange daisies with reddish centres
• Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall (July to September)
• Foliage: Bronze-tinted leaves on sturdy, wine-purple stems
• Features: Good cut flower

Where to Plant: Its height and narrow habit make it a natural for the back of the border, a cottage garden or a prairie-style planting, where the dark stems give it presence even before the flowers open. It is tough enough for cold Ottawa winters and stays happy in clay that drains.

Companion Plants: Symphyotrichum shortii takes over from this tall false sunflower in late summer, with blue asters from August to October. Plant Phlox Super Ka-Pow™ Lavender in front for lavender flowers from June to August at 45 to 50 cm. Eupatorium 'Chocolate' adds white flowers on 90 to 120 cm stems from August to October. The group handles full sun or part sun.

Plant Care: Plant in full sun with good air movement. Crowded spots near walls or tall neighbours can lead to powdery mildew and rust. It tolerates part sun, but stems get weaker in shade. Soil of moderate fertility is best. Skip the fertilizer, since rich soil makes the tall stems flop. If you want a shorter, bushier plant, cut the stems back by about half in June. Deadhead to stretch the bloom season. Cut back in late fall or early spring, and divide the clump every few years in spring.

History: 'Summer Nights' was selected and named at North Creek Nurseries in Pennsylvania from seed of wild native plants. The species, Heliopsis helianthoides, grows in prairies, meadows and open woods across eastern and central North America, including Ontario.

Final Thoughts: Plant it at the back and let it hold court until fall. Deer usually give it a pass. THE NIGHT IS YOUNG. SO IS YOUR GARDEN.