Sneezeweed - Helenium autumnale (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Sneezeweed

Also known as: Swamp sunflower, Autumn sneezeweed

Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale) is a flowering perennial herb native to North America. In late summer and fall, one sneezeweed plant can produce as many as 100 yellow flower heads in a branching array. This species attracts butterflies and other pollinators.

Scientific classification

Species

Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid summer, Late summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

30 cm to 1.2 m

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Red, Brown, Orange

Flower Color

Green, Yellow, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Images of Sneezeweed

Attributes of Sneezeweed

Growth Rate

Exhibiting a rapid growth rate, sneezeweed swiftly expands during its active seasons of Spring and Summer. This quickening pace cultivates profuse leaf development and significant height increase, with heightened blooming typically observed in late Summer. The rapid growth also allows sneezeweed to recover quickly from seasonal adversities, underscoring its resilience.

Distribution of Sneezeweed

Distribution Map

Sneezeweed is a perennial plant native to North America. It has extended its range through cultivation and naturalization to various regions, including parts of Europe and Asia. Its presence in these areas is owed to both deliberate introduction by humans and its own adaptability to diverse climates and habitats. Recognized for its resilience, sneezeweed continues to be cultivated in temperate zones beyond its native continent.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Moist, open areas along streams and ponds, wet meadows

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Sneezeweed is a popular ornamental species in temperate gardens for its beauty, and is available in a variety of cultivars with different shapes and patterns of yellow, orange, and russet. It is used in rain gardens, cottage gardens, and any moist, sunny spot in a garden that needs some color.

Symbolism

Tenderness, tears

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Sneezeweed, including the following common varieties :

Sneezeweed 'Zimbelstern'Sneezeweed 'Moerheim Beauty'

Toxicity

Sneezeweed is highly toxic for humans, causing symptoms like abdominal pain and convulsions. Contact requires caution (gloves recommended). Moderately toxic to cats and dogs, ingesting any part can lead to symptoms needing immediate veterinary care. Keep away from children and pets, as accidental contact or ingestion could be dangerous.

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Quickly Identify Sneezeweed

Bright yellow flowers with distinct ray florets and central disk

Leaves narrow, lanceolate, stalkless, toothed, and 2-5 inches (5-13 cm) long

Flower rays wedge-shaped, drooping, and divided into three lobes

Fruit is small achene, oblong, 0.1 inches (2-3 mm) long, clustered

Overall height of 2-5 feet (60-150 cm) with dense clusters of 1-2 inch (2.5-5 cm) flower heads

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Care Guide for Sneezeweed

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Thriving in moist, streamside habitats, sneezeweed prefers consistent moisture, without drought or excessive humidity. Water sneezeweed weekly to support vibrant blooms and robust growth during its active season, as its flowering is influenced by adequate hydration.

Fertilize: For optimal growth of sneezeweed, use balanced fertilizers (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring and high phosphorus fertilizers before flowering. Apply quarterly as directed, avoiding over-fertilization to prevent excess foliage and burn. Water after application and reduce feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy.

Pruning: Sneezeweed features bright yellow and orange flowers and benefits from early to late spring pruning. Key techniques include deadheading, cutting back leggy stems, and pruning post-flowering to maintain shape and health, while preventing disease and promoting better air circulation and overall vigor.

Propagation: Sneezeweed propagates easily by sowing seeds in early Spring. It has moderate difficulty in propagation, with success shown by germination and vigorous seedlings. Maintain moist soil and ensure sufficient sunlight for optimal growth.

Repotting: Sneezeweed is a vibrant perennial bush, growing up to 1.5 meters (5 feet). Repot every 2-3 years in spring using a slightly larger container with good drainage. Post-repotting, maintain consistent moisture and partial shade to support recovery while avoiding common repotting errors.

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