Species sneezeweed
Yellow flower with yellow anthers, dark-green leaves and stem.

sneezeweed

Helenium virginicum

Sneezeweed (Helenium virginicum) is a species of yellow daisy-like flower native to North America. It grows to a height of 1-3 feet tall and produces small yellow flowers in the late summer months. The flowers are fragrant and attract butterflies and other pollinators. It is a hardy plant, tolerating both moist and dry conditions and is particularly drought tolerant. Its common name comes from the fact that the dried plant material, when placed in water, was sometimes used to make a remedy for hayfever-causing ragweed.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Sneezeweed (Helenium virginicum) should be watered once a week or as needed while they are actively growing. During the summer months, when temperatures are warmer and the plant is more active, it will need more frequent watering. As such, it should be watered deeply (about 2 to 3 inches of water) once to twice a week. During the winter, the plant will need less water and can be watered every 10 days to 2 weeks. In areas of extreme drought or high temperatures, water more often as needed to prevent the plant from wilting or becoming stressed.

sunlight

Sneezeweed (Helenium virginicum) prefers full sun to partial shade, and requires around 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth. The best time of day to provide this light is from mid-morning to mid-afternoon, although these plants can also tolerate morning sun and early afternoon shade. Additionally, some afternoon shade in the summer can actually help keep the plant from becoming too hot and drying out.

pruning

Sneezeweed (Helenium virginicum) should be pruned in late winter or early spring, just before the plant begins to grow for the season. This will help to shape the flower's shape and size. To prune, simply remove any dead leaves and any stems that appear weak or diseased. Prune the blossoms sparingly, as they are typically produced on the previous season's shoots. When pruning, try to keep the natural shape of the plant in mind. Cut back any overly long shoots that extend past the natural shape of the plant. Pruning squeeweed in this way should help to encourage vigorous growth, as well as healthy, vibrant blooms.

Season

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

Sneezeweed typically starts flowering in July.

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.