A compact plant with deep red, daisy-like flowers in early autumn. Position: full sun Soil: fertile, moist but well-drained soil Rate of growth: slow to average Flowering period: August to September Hardiness: fully hardy Widely spaced deep burgundy ray florets, which are often quilled at their outer edge, gradually turn to coppery-red and become slightly reflexed as they mature towards the end of summer. They surround large blackish-red centres that produce small yellow disc florets. Bushy and compact in habit, they are an ideal choice for pots and containers. Garden care: Heleniums are versatile plants that love plenty of sunshine and moist soil. They rarely suffer from pests or diseases, however young plants do need to be protected from slug attack. Tall varieties need to be staked. To encourage the plant to repeat flower, deadhead back to side shoots that have flower buds emerging. Cut back by half after flowering to help prevent mildew, and cut down to the ground in late winter. Every two or three years in the spring when the new growth is surging away, you can divide the plants to keep them in top condition. Ideally the new growth should be about 7cm high. Either replant them straight into the ground with loads of well-rotted organic matter to feed them and keep them moist, or plant them into pots, but do make sure they are kept watered.