Inula

These herbaceous perennials are natives of Europe, Asia and Africa and belong to the Daisy family, Compositae. The height of the different types varies considerably from 1 to 6 feet. I. magnifica grows up to 6 feet and has dark green, lance shaped leaves, which are smooth above and hairy beneath with serrated edges. Its large, rich yellow flowers have very thin petals; they are borne in clusters atop long, leafy stems in late summer. I. Hookeri only grows up to 30 inches high and forms clumps of mid-green, elliptic to lance shaped leaves that are coarse and hairy. The slightly fragrant flowers have very narrow, greenish-yellow petals and golden-yellow centers. They grow in late summer.

Pot Cultivation

Grow Inulas in deep, fertile, moist soil that has good drainage. They prefer full sun but will tolerate light shade. Some varieties may spread quickly.

Propagation

These plants may be divided or seeds may be sown in the spring or fall. Pieces of root will form new roots if set in sandy soil, in the fall.