Elecampane Seeds

Inula helenium

Elecampane is a striking, long-lived perennial herb with a rich history in traditional Western herbal medicine. Growing up to 2 m tall, it produces large, velvety green leaves and cheerful golden-yellow daisy-like flowers throughout summer that attract bees and other beneficial insects. Its bold architectural form makes it equally at home in ornamental borders, cottage gardens and medicinal herb gardens.

Traditionally, the thick aromatic roots have been prepared as teas, tinctures and syrups to help soothe coughs and support healthy respiratory function, while also being valued as a bitter herb to stimulate digestion and support stomach function. The flowers have also been used as a natural source of yellow and orange dyes. Roots are typically harvested from plants in their second or third year, once they have reached full size.

Approximately 350–450 seeds per gram
Approximately 50 seeds per packet

When to Plant (Australia)

Tropics: April to July
Subtropics: March to May and August to October
Mild climates: March to May and September to November
Cold climates: September to November

Planting / Sowing

Surface sow or lightly cover seed with 2–3 mm of fine seed-raising mix, keeping the soil evenly moist until germination. Sow in a sunny position or light afternoon shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Space plants 60–90 cm apart, allowing room for their large foliage and deep root system. Once established, Elecampane is hardy and relatively drought tolerant, although regular moisture encourages vigorous growth.

Due to quarantine restrictions, TAS has an 800g limit per each seed variety and WA has a 10,000 seeds limit per variety.