common sneezeweed
Helenium autumnale
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size3 to 5 feet tall2 to 3 feet wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Yellow rays and dull yellow center disks
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Common sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale) is a perennial for borders, pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and meadows. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to wet soil of most types. Yellow daisy-like flowers with drooping rays and a ball-like center open in late summer or fall. Butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees visit them. Deer and rabbits rarely make it their first choice.
Pairs well with Spotted joe-pye weed, Little bluestem, Royal fern, and Obedient plant.
Native range
North America.