Description
Helenium autumnale | Common Sneezeweed ‘Sahins Early Flowerer’
Helenium or Common Sneezeweed, also known as large-flowered sneezeweed, Helens Flower, Dogtooth Daisy, and Yellow Star, is is a genus of about 40 species of annuals and deciduous herbaceous perennials in the daisy family (Asteraceae) native to the Americas, is an upright clumping wildflower. The name ‘sneezeweed’ was given based on the former use of its dried leaves in making snuff, inhaled to cause sneezing that would rid the body of evil spirits. And it is known as Helens Flower after Helen of Troy, where a legend says that these plants sprang from her tears!
The ‘Sahins Early Flowerer’ is a beautiful perennial variety that has a longer flowering period than others. This selection was given the Award of Garden Merit in 2001 by the Royal Horticultural Society. Starting in midsummer, orange, yellow and red daisy-type flowers bloom atop tall, winged stems that have elongated bright-green leaves. Every flower is unique and no two look the same! Bushier and self-supporting if cut back in early summer. Long blooming.
Attracts bees, butterflies and other pollinators to the raised button centers of the flower. Loves moist, well-drained soils and a sunny spot in meadow gardens, prairies, and borders. Plus looks great paired with grasses and makes great cut flowers.
Type: Perennial
Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
Mature height: 3 ft
Mature width: 18-24 inches
Hardiness zones: 4-8