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Description
Helianthus Helianthoides Happy Days, commonly known as Happy Days sunflower, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to North America and is commonly found in eastern and central regions of the United States. The Happy Days sunflower is known for its large, bright yellow flowers that bloom in summer and fall. This plant is an excellent addition to gardens and landscapes due to its attractive appearance and easy care requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helianthus |
Appearance
The Happy Days sunflower can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a spread of 3 feet. It has dark green leaves that are slightly hairy and can grow up to 8 inches long. The flowers of this plant are large and bright yellow with a dark center disk. Each flower can grow up to 4 inches in diameter and has numerous petals. The blooms of this plant can last for several weeks and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant produces seeds that are eaten by birds and other wildlife.
Care Guide
To care for a Happy Days sunflower, it is important to provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:Water: The Happy Days sunflower prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilization but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.Sunlight: The Happy Days sunflower needs full sun to thrive. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Happy Days sunflower is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spots. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. Aphids and slugs may occasionally feed on the plant, but these pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or other organic pest control methods.
Habitat
The Happy Days sunflower is native to North America and is commonly found in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. This plant is an excellent choice for naturalizing a landscape or creating a wildflower meadow.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Happy Days sunflower be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and water needs.Q: How often should Happy Days sunflower be fertilized?
A: This plant only needs to be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Is Happy Days sunflower deer resistant?
A: No, this plant is not deer resistant and may need to be protected from deer damage.Q: Can Happy Days sunflower be propagated by seeds?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated by seeds. Collect the seeds in the fall and sow them in the spring.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Helianthus Helianthoides Happy Days:
- Helianthus annuus (common sunflower)
- Helianthus decapetalus (ten-petal sunflower)
- Helianthus salicifolius (willowleaf sunflower)
- Helianthus maximiliani (Maximilian sunflower)
References
- “Helianthus Helianthoides,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed July 1, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b694.
- “Happy Days Sunflower,” Gardenia, accessed July 1, 2021, https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/helianthus-helianthoides-happy-days.
