Common Sneezeweed

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-5 Feet

Mature Spread

3-4 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 8

Common Sneezeweed is not the most appealing name, but this beauty is a lovely choice for a butterfly garden or any area needing bright, bold color. Its yellow petals have feathery, scalloped ends and surround a large cone. This plant is a late bloomer, with flowers opening in the late summer or early fall, providing color at the season's end. Butterflies and other pollinators are drawn to the flowers.

Helenium autumnale is native to North America, so once it settles in, it will require very little care to thrive. Feature Common Sneezeweed in beds, borders, or butterfly gardens. The Common Sneezeweed creates a cottage vibe and supports the local ecosystem. Green, lanced-shaped foliage creates visual interest and color throughout the growing season.

Common Sneezeweed Care

Common Sneezeweed needs a sunny area with at least 6 hours of sunlight. The soil should be moist and well drained with a pH on the acidic side. This plant has medium moisture needs, so water weekly or when the top few inches of soil are dry. Apply a layer of organic mulch to keep the soil damp. Feed Common Sneezeweed with a balanced fertilizer once during the spring, and that will support the plant throughout the growing season.

Remove faded flowers to encourage more blooms. Cut the stems back to the foliage level after the flowers fade to maintain a neat and compact look. Common Sneezeweed can be propagated through division during the spring or fall every few years.

Common Sneezeweed Spacing

Common Sneezeweed is a clump-forming, upright plant that will reach 3 to 5 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide. Create a dense planting by spacing plants 3 feet apart so air can circulate around the foliage.