Species sneezeweed Guide
yellow colored saucer-like flowers with brown stamens, green stems, and green, lanceolate leaves

sneezeweed

Helenium 'Zimbelstern'

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Yellow rays and bronze center disks Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Sneezeweed should be watered about once a week. During the initial establishment period, water more frequently to ensure the newly planted Helenium 'Zimbelstern' has enough moisture to establish itself. During the summer growing season, keep the soil moist but not soggy. Decrease the frequency of watering to every 5-7 days during this period. In times of high heat, water regularly and deeply to keep the plant hydrated and healthy. In the winter months, reduce watering to every 10-14 days.

sunlight

Sneezeweed (Helenium 'Zimbelstern') grows best in full sun, which means it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The sun's rays not only provide the plant with much-needed warmth, but they also help activate chemical processes in the plant that aid in photosynthesis. It is best to provide Sneezeweed with sun during the hours of 10am - 3pm, when the sun is at its peak intensity and the plant is able to make better use of the light energy. The sun's rays also help the plant to develop strong stem and branch structure.

pruning

Helenium 'Zimbelstern' should be pruned twice a year, in spring and mid-summer. Prune the stems and flower heads back to 6" (15 cm) high in springtime to promote branching and bushy growth, and again in mid-summer to encourage new growth and flower production. Cut off any old or diseased stems and remove any spent or dead flower heads at any time.

FAQ

Are Sneezeweed flowers suitable for bouquets?

Sneezeweed flowers are not typically used for bouquets due to their large size and bushy shape. The flowers are usually dried and used in other craft projects or for medicinal purposes. If you wanted to use dried Sneezeweed in your bouquet, they would provide a unique and eye-catching contrast against the other greenery in the bouquet.

Should Sneezeweed be planted in groups or individually?

Sneezeweed should be planted in groups, as groupings of this flower look the best in the garden. Planting them in groups will not only make them look more appealing but will also provide helpful cover for its shallow roots. Additionally, planting them in large groupings can help it to attract pollinators like butterflies and bees, providing a habitat where they can feed off the nectar-filled blooms. For best results, it's suggested to plant groupings of three to five plants for a lush, full look.

Is Sneezeweed resistant to deer damage?

Sneezeweed is a perennial flower with a resiliency to deer damage. It has a hairy leaf texture which deters deer from browsing on it and it produces a strong aroma that most deer tend to stay away from. The stems of the plant are also relatively tough, and not easily broken off. All in all, it is considered to be deer-resistant, but not completely deer-proof. It's important to monitor the plant to make sure it is not being overbrowsed and to take steps to protect it, if necessary.

Could Sneezeweed be grown as a cut flower crop?

Yes, sneezeweed can be grown as a cut flower crop. It is an attractive and abundant flower that has a daisy-like bloom. These flowers come in a variety of colors like yellow, orange, white, and burgundy. They are striking flowers with large, paper-like petals. They can be grown in full sun to partial shade and they prefer moist soil and regular watering. Sneezeweed flowers can be harvested for bouquets and other floral arrangements, and their cheerful blooms can brighten up any home or garden.

Do Sneezeweed plants require staking?

Sneezeweed plants do not typically require staking as they have quite sturdy stems that can easily hold their own weight. Depending on the size of the plant and the growing conditions, it is possible that staking may be needed to keep it upright. However, since the plant stems are so strong and rigid, it is typically not necessary.

Is Sneezeweed a good choice for erosion control?

Yes, Sneezeweed can be a good choice for erosion control. It is a vigorous, economical low maintenance plant with deep roots that make it ideal for quick soil stabilization and improved water quality. Its flat-topped blossoms provide cover for wildlife, making it a popular choice for natural areas. The plant's quick growth and large, thick foliage make it great for reducing erosion on slopes, shores, and other areas where fast-growing, hardy plants are desired.

Are there different varieties of sneezeweed?

Yes, there are different varieties of sneezeweed. Sneezeweed is a flowering plant in the daisy family, also known as Helenium. It produces yellow, red, orange, bronze and purple flowers from July to October. There are numerous species of sneezeweed; some of the most popular types are 'Mardi Gras', 'Autumnale', 'Red Rubin', 'Tahoka Daisy' and 'Kobold'. Each variety of sneezeweed is unique in its coloring, flower size and flowering period.