Species sneezeweed
yellow colored flower with yellow-brown stamens, green sepal, and stem

sneezeweed

Helenium 'Short 'n' Sassy'

Helenium 'Short 'n' Sassy' is an eye-catching, low-maintenance, drought-tolerant variety of sneezeweed. Growing to a maximum height of 10 inches, this perennial is perfect for border plantings and containers. The deep yellow petals bloom from early summer to fall, often drawing the attention of pollinators. Sneezeweed thrives in sunny locations that have moist soil with average fertility. Propagate by division and keep soil evenly moist while establishing. Deadhead spent blooms to extend flowering. This is the perfect low-maintenance garden staple that adds a splash of bright color to any garden bed.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Blend of orange and yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Sneezeweed should be watered deeply and regularly to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. It is best to water slowly over several hours to allow the water to penetrate deeply into the root zone. During the first few weeks of growth, water every 2 to 3 days until the plants are established. Then you can water every 4 to 5 days during the summer and fall months. During the winter months, water every 7 to 10 days. You may need to water more often if the air is particularly dry.

sunlight

Sneezeweed (Helenium 'Short 'n' Sassy') will thrive in full sun. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce the best blooms. In hot, dry climates, it should receive some afternoon shade to protect the foliage. Too much sunlight can burn the foliage and cause the leaves to drop off. It is best to place it in an area where it gets maximum morning sun and filtered afternoon light.

pruning

Sneezeweed (Helenium 'Short 'n' Sassy') should be lightly pruned in late winter, or early spring after the last frost. If the plant becomes too large, it can be pruned more aggressively to control size and encourage bushy growth. To do this, begin by trimming off old and/or leggy stems. Cut the stems back to 1-third of their height, cutting just above a node. Then, lightly tip prune remaining stems, cutting just above a node, to create a fuller, bushier plant. The pruning process should take about 10 minutes, and should be repeated once or twice a season.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Helenium 'Short 'n' Sassy' typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Helenium 'Short 'n' Sassy' typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map

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.