Also known as Elecampagne · Elecampane Inula · Elf-Dock
Elecampane (Inula helenium) is a large, herbaceous perennial with broad leaves and striking yellow daisy-like flowers, grown for ornamental and medicinal purposes.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal flowering and growth.
Moderate to High
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during establishment and dry spells. Allow top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Loam, Sand, Clay
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 3-8. Prefers cooler to moderate temperatures, but can tolerate heat if adequately watered.
Low to Moderate
25% intensity
Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost in spring. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Elecampane prefers consistent moisture, especially when young. Water regularly once the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
While it tolerates some drought once established, consistent watering promotes healthier growth and larger blooms. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding. In late autumn or early spring, cut back the old foliage to the ground to tidy the plant and allow for fresh growth.
Remove any dead or damaged stems throughout the growing season.
Elecampane can be propagated by seed, sown in spring or autumn. It also readily divides. In spring, lift clumps and divide them into sections, ensuring each piece has roots and shoots.
Replant divisions immediately into prepared soil.
Established plants are generally best left undisturbed. If repotting is necessary, typically for container-grown specimens, do so in early spring before new growth begins.
Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, using well-draining soil.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Elecampane (Inula helenium)
Where Elecampane (Inula helenium) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Inula |
| Species | Inula helenium |
Similar in genus Inula
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
