Autumn Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale)
A North American native perennial that produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers from late summer to fall and is an important source of late-season nectar for pollinators. Despite its name, it is non-allergenic and does not cause hay fever because it is insect-pollinated, not wind-pollinated. Historically, its dried flowers were used as a snuff to induce sneezing for medicinal purposes. It is a low-maintenance plant that grows up to 5 feet tall, thrives in full sun and moist soil, and is poisonous if eaten in large quantities.
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil: Moist soil to wet soil ( thrives in wet meadows, streambanks, and moist, open woodlands)
Height: 3 to 5 feet (90-150 cm) tall
Garden Design:
Loves moist and well-drained soil with full sun for best blooms. Incorporate it where it can thrive in naturalized settings, such as matrix meadow designs or rain gardens, and pair it with other late-season plants like asters and Black-Eyed Susans. To manage its height and prevent flopping, use it in the back of borders or use techniques like the "Chelsea chop" to create shorter, bushier plants.