Burning Hearts Smooth Ox-Eye False Sunflower

Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra 'Burning Hearts' is a clump-forming perennial with golden-yellow petals, red-orange centers, and dark purple foliage. Its extended summer-to-fall bloom and upright stems make it useful in sunny borders and as a cut flower. ([RHS plant profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/360600/heliopsis-helianthoides-var-scabra-burning-hearts/details), [Natural Lands at Stoneleigh](https://www.natlands.org/stoneleigh/plants/false-sunflower/)) ## Garden use Plan for roughly 3–4 feet of height and about 1.5–3.3 feet of spread; published mature ranges vary, with RHS listing 0.5–1 metre for both dimensions and North American sources reporting narrower spreads. The flowers run from summer into early autumn, and pollinators visit the open centers. The upright clump works in a cottage-style border, wildlife planting, or cutting garden. ## Growing conditions Choose full sun for sturdy stems and the strongest flowering. It grows in moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil and tolerates a range of soil textures. Natural Lands lists USDA Zones 3–9; the RHS describes this selection as hardy in its UK rating system. ## Maintenance Deadhead to prolong flowering, or leave some seedheads for small birds. Divide the clump every two to three years to maintain vigor.