Sneezeweed

Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale) is a herbaceous perennial in the daisy family that is native to much of the United States and southern Canada. It grows 3 to 5 feet (91 to 152 cm) tall and 2 to 3 feet (61 to 91 cm) wide. Its flowers have yellow rays around a domed center from late summer into fall. Named cultivars such as Moerheim Beauty and Butterpat offer red, copper and yellow shades.

Seed can be sown in spring. The species is easily grown from seed, but named hybrids are usually raised by division or tip cuttings made in early spring. Plant in full sun in average to rich soil that stays moist. Division can be done in autumn or spring, and the clumps can be divided every 2 to 3 years; another guide suggests every 3 to 5 years.

Cut the plant back in early summer to encourage branching and more flowers. Taller types may need staking. Plants need watering during dry periods, and too much fertilizer promotes leafy growth and fewer flowers. Deadheading prolongs flowering.

The plant is generally pest-free and disease-free, but it may be susceptible to leaf spot. Watch for powdery mildew, leaf spot and rust. Taller types can end up with ragged foliage if they dry out too much.

The flowers are excellent for cutting. They bloom into autumn and provide pollen and nectar for bees and other insects.

The page lists the flowers, leaves and seeds as poisonous to people, with medium severity, and says it is toxic only if eaten in large quantities. Keep people from eating these parts. Handling the foliage can cause skin irritation in susceptible people.