Common Sneezeweed

Common Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale)

Common Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale) is a robust, late-season perennial known for its profusion of daisy-like yellow flowers that bloom from late summer through fall. This North American native thrives in meadows, borders, and pollinator gardens, adding vibrant color when many other plants are fading. Its long-lasting blooms make it a valuable nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.

Distinctive Features

Common Sneezeweed produces an abundance of bright yellow, ray-petaled flowers with a distinct raised, golden-brown central cone. The blooms are held on sturdy, branching stems that form an upright clump, making it an excellent choice for adding height and late-season interest to garden plantings.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates clay and sandy soils.
• Water: Prefers consistent moisture but can tolerate short dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8, adaptable to a wide range of climates.

Ideal Uses

• Mixed Borders: Provides late-season color and height.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees and butterflies.
• Meadow and Prairie Plantings: Naturalizes beautifully.
• Mass Plantings: Creates a striking display.
• Cut Flower Gardens: Long-lasting blooms are excellent for fresh arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

Common Sneezeweed is a hardy, easy-to-grow perennial that requires minimal upkeep.

• Watering: Prefers consistent moisture but can tolerate short dry periods.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote strong growth.
• Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Generally unpalatable to browsing animals.

Why Choose Common Sneezeweed?

This late-flowering, easy-care perennial provides bold color and supports pollinators when few other plants are in bloom.

• Golden-Yellow Blooms: Brightens up late-season gardens.
• Extended Bloom Period: Flowers persist from late summer through fall.
• Pollinator Magnet: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
• Low Maintenance: Thrives with minimal care.

For a long-lasting, easy-care perennial that delivers fall color and ecological benefits, Common Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale) is an excellent choice.