False Sunflower: From Sakarya Highlands to My Garden

Walking on the highland I saw it by the roadside. Bright yellow, full, almost layered petals. Similar to a sunflower but not quite. Smaller, more delicate, with a wilder beauty. We asked its name: the one that brings the pasha down from his horse.

That name made me smile. The Turkish tradition of naming plants is always poetic. They say horses would once stumble on this plant. Or perhaps it is just so striking it stops passers-by in their tracks.

What Is This Plant?

Scientifically known as Heliopsis helianthoides, this plant is a perennial species from the daisy family. Though native to North America it has found a home in Anatolia, naturalized especially in the highlands of the Black Sea region and Central Anatolia.

Also known as False Sunflower for its resemblance to sunflowers. But it does not follow the sun, blooms much longer and is perennial, returning from the same root every year and eventually forming a large clump.

How It Grows in My Garden

I brought seeds from the highland and sowed them in a sunny spot. First year a single stem, modest beginning. Second year two or three stems. Now it emerges more every year, spreading and growing.

This plant gets tall. Left without support it bends and falls over. I now stake wooden supports beside it and it climbs upward. Can reach 1.5 to 2 meters. Those yellow flowers bloom throughout August and it becomes the brightest corner of the garden.

Why It Belongs in Every Garden

Being perennial, no replanting needed each year. It self-propagates and excess seedlings can be moved elsewhere over time. Rich nectar source for bees and butterflies throughout its long bloom period. Creates a beautiful background screen with its height. Moderately drought tolerant and low maintenance.

Local Seed, Local Plant

There is one more thing that makes this plant special. I brought it from the highland, from its natural habitat. Its seeds have been adapting to that climate and soil for decades. A much more valuable start than buying ready-made seedlings.

Collecting and keeping local seeds alive in your garden is not just a hobby, it is a kind of conservation. That plant carries a piece of that highland in your garden too.

How to Grow It

Full sun is the most important condition. Grows in partial shade too but flower yield drops. Average well-draining soil is sufficient. Very rich soil causes excessive leaf growth and fewer flowers. Drought tolerant once established. Stake it once it passes 1 meter. Cut to the base at season end and it will re-emerge from the root in spring.

If you have a sunny empty corner in your garden this is exactly where it goes. Plant it once and it stays with you for years.