Helenium Helena Red Shades RHS Seeds

Helenium autumnale 'Helena Red Shades' is a striking perennial celebrated for its fiery red blooms with deep mahogany and golden undertones. Its daisy-like flowers, with contrasting yellow or dark brown central discs, bring warm, glowing colour to late-summer and autumn borders.

 

The genus Helenium honours Helen of Troy in Greek mythology, as legend says these flowers sprang from the ground where her tears fell. The ‘Helena Red Shades’ variety is particularly valued for its bold hues and robust nature, making it an outstanding performer in garden landscapes.

 

Awarded the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM), Helenium 'Helena Red Shades' is included in the RHS Seed Scheme for its exceptional quality and reliable germination. This plant is loved by pollinators, providing a rich source of nectar for bees and butterflies as the seasons change.

 

Thriving in full sun, this hardy perennial prefers moist but well-drained soil. Growing to a height of 90 - 120 cm, it’s perfect for creating vertical interest in mixed borders, cottage gardens, or prairie-style plantings.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 50

 

Sow: January - March (indoors) or April - May (outdoors)

Germination: 14 - 21 days

Soil: Moist, well-drained soil; neutral to slightly acidic pH

Height: 90 - 120 cm

Flowering: August - October

Companion Plants: Rudbeckia, Echinacea, Miscanthus

Avoid Planting With: Plants that prefer dry or sandy conditions

 

Low-maintenance and reliable, Helenium Helena Red Shades requires little effort for a stunning display. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming, and divide clumps every three years to maintain vigour. Its strong stems make it an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements, adding a burst of warm colour to indoor displays.

 

Sowing Instructions

Indoors: Sow seeds in trays or pots filled with moist, well-drained compost from January to March. Lightly press seeds into the surface and cover with a fine layer of compost or vermiculite. Maintain a temperature of 15-20°C. Transplant seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, and harden off before planting outdoors after the last frost.

 

Outdoors: Sow directly into prepared soil from April to May. Scatter seeds thinly, cover lightly with fine soil, and water gently. Keep the area moist until germination occurs. Thin seedlings to a spacing of 30 - 40 cm for healthy, vigorous growth.

 

With its rich tones and late-season blooms, Helenium Helena Red Shades is a gardener’s delight, extending colour and pollinator activity into the autumn months. This RHS-endorsed variety is a must-have for vibrant and dynamic planting schemes.

 

RHS Seed Scheme Range