Helianthus x multiflorus 'Meteor'

Date Introduced
2002

Introduced by
Devon Group

Reason for Inclusion
An old variety, found by nurseryman George Arends from Ronsdorf-Wuppertal, as a sport on H. 'Soleil d'Or' in about 1894-5 which he named 'Meteor'

Verification
Rolf Offenthal HPS Journal Spring 1999

Brief description of plant
Hardy herbaceous clump-forming perennial.

Height x Spread
100cm-200cm x 50cm-100cm

Flowers
Very floriferous. 8-10cm diameter sunshine yellow daisy-like flowers with anemone centres. Sometimes petals have notched edges, but this is not consistent and flowers on the same plant can vary.

Foliage
Mid-green serrated leaves.

Flowering Time
July - Aug

Soil type
Any moisture-retentive soil.

Aspect
Full sun or part-shade

Pests and diseases
Slugs and snails may be a problem as new foliage emerges in spring. Mildew may a problem if the plant gets too dry, particularly towards the end of the flowering period.

Cultivation
Completely hardy and clumps are initially vigorous, but regular division every 2-3 years and re-planting is recommended otherwise the clump may fade away. Dead-head to prevent seeding as resulting plants may not be the same as the parent.

Propagation
Division of established clumps. Basal or rooted stem cuttings can be taken in spring, and will root outdoors.