Helenium autumnale (Sneezeweed)
Helenium autumnale (Sneezeweed)
Sneezeweed does not cause allergies despite its name. It was once used as a snuff substitute (sneezing was fashionable once) hence the name. It is however a pollinator attracting powerhouse and a good choice for difficult erosive soils along creeks and rivers. Growing from 4-5 feet tall and spreading readily, make sure to provide lots of room for this plant. Yellow flowers with button-like yellow centers appear in mid-summer from August to October and are great for attracting many kinds of pollinators. This plant has a nation-wide range and is highly variable depending on where seeds come from. In general this plant prefers moist to boggy soils and full sun. Zone 3-9; WV ecotype.