Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale)
Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale)
Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale) is certainly one of the most cheerful native perennials to grace the late-summer garden. The pure species bears sunny, golden-yellow flowers with distinct raised centers that attract countless bees and butterflies. Blooming from August into October, it thrives in full sun and moist soils—especially thriving along pond edges, ditches, or rain gardens where other plants might struggle. Its upright stems and long-lasting blooms bring structure and warmth just as many summer flowers begin to fade.
Why is it called “Sneezeweed?”
Despite its misleading name, Sneezeweed doesn’t cause allergies. The name comes from an old-fashioned use of its dried leaves and flowers, which were ground into snuff to deliberately induce sneezing—once thought to expel evil spirits or cleanse the sinuses. Its pollen is heavy and insect-carried, not airborne like ragweed.
Cultivation + Nativars.
The nativars of Sneezeweed express a brilliance and diversity of color. These cultivars transform the plant from a meadow wildflower into a true garden centerpiece:
- ‘Moerheim Beauty’ – A classic favorite, this variety basically glows in deep coppery-red and russet tones, with petals that often fade through amber and orange as the season progresses. It has a tidy, altogether upright habit reaching about 3 feet tall, with sturdy stems that rarely need staking.
- ‘Mardi Gras’ – True to its name, this cultivar bursts with so much celebration. Petals are basically streaked in yellow, orange, and red, creating a confetti effect across the plant. Altogether, the multicolored blooms appear over a long season, making it a standout in mixed borders and pollinator plantings alike.
- ‘Helena Red Shades’ – This cultivar produces a rich display of ruby-red and also crimson petals surrounding a golden-brown cone. Slightly shorter and more compact, it works beautifully in front-of-border plantings or smaller gardens while maintaining an abundant, floriferous habit.
All sneezeweeds share a strong architectural presence and a robust perennial root system. They prefer full sun, consistent moisture, and can tolerate heavy soils. Cutting them back by one-third in early summer encourages bushier growth and more flowers. Their radiant hues and generous nectar supply make Helenium autumnale—in any form—a symbol of autumn’s enduring warmth and beauty.
Botanical name: Helenium autumnale.
Common name: Sneezeweed.
Bloom time: Late summer to early fall.
Native range: Much of North America.
Pollinator value: High — essential late-season nectar source for bees and butterflies.
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