How much sun does Elecampane need?

Elecampane grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Elecampane bloom?

Elecampane blooms in July, August, and September.

Where is Elecampane native?

Elecampane (Inula helenium) is native to RI, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Elecampane attract?

Elecampane draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.

Is Elecampane HOA-friendly?

Elecampane takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Elecampane

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Inula helenium

Last reviewed: June 2026

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

36"–72" H × 24"–36" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range

Elecampane is a tall, robust perennial herb with large, coarse leaves and bright yellow daisy-like flowers that bloom from summer into early fall. This substantial plant can reach up to 6 feet tall and spreads moderately, making it best suited for larger garden spaces. It prefers full sun and average moisture conditions.

In an HOA neighborhood

Elecampane takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

Very tall and coarse appearance looks wild
Large leaves can appear untidy as they age
Not native to North America despite naturalization

Wildlife value

The large yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during the long summer blooming period. This plant provides valuable late-season nectar when many other flowers are fading.

Common questions

How much sun does Elecampane need?: Elecampane grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Elecampane bloom?: Elecampane blooms in July, August, and September.
Where is Elecampane native?: Elecampane (Inula helenium) is native to RI, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Elecampane attract?: Elecampane draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
Is Elecampane HOA-friendly?: Elecampane takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

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