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Helenium
Seed Packet

Helenium

Helenium autumnale
Helenium grows lustily in the summer with beautiful, healthy green leaves and a vigorous shrubby form. In midsummer, the broad-petaled daisies bloom, attracting bees and butterflies to the raised button centers. The name sneezeweed refers to the historical use of the ground dried leaves and flowers as a snuff with medicinal benefits. It prospers in moist, well-drained soils and full sun in meadow gardens and borders and pairs beautifully with grasses.
SKU #S1902
Caution: Poisonous. The purchaser assumes all liability related to the use of this product.
$3.25
Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
1769
Lifecycle
Perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
3,
4,
5,
6,
7,
8
Mature Size
3-5' h x 2-3' w
Sun
Full sun
Soil
Rich, moist, well-drained
Season
Summer to fall
Color
Bright yellow
Features
Great Cut Flower
Deer Resistant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
Attracts Beneficial Insects
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Surface sow and firm lightly.
Sprout Time:
14-21 days
Starting Indoors:
Start in containers 6-8 weeks before last frost. Keep at about 70°F, covering with humidity dome until germination occurs.
Starting Outdoors:
Sow direct in spring after frost into a prepared bed.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
Set in the ground in spring, or in late summer to early autumn.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
A beautiful native flower, Helenium or sneezeweed, is found in wet meadows and along sunny pond edges. It seamlessly transitions to humus-rich soil in borders, where its bright flowers enliven midsummer and fall gardens and pair beautifully with grasses. Cut back in early June to promote additional branching and flowering and a more manageable size that will not need staking. Deadhead, if desired, for extended bloom, or allow the seedheads to add interest to late fall and winter gardens. Deer-resistant, it attracts butterflies, bees, and beneficial insects and is a host plant for some butterfly caterpillars. Divide every 3-4 years. Caution: contains some toxic elements.
Final Spacing:
1.5-3'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
Keep moist—water regularly and do not allow soil to dry out.
Soil pH:
Does best in slightly acidic to neutral soils, but will tolerate most pH levels.
Fertilizer:
Mix in a balanced organic fertilizer when planting and topdress with an inch of compost in spring. Too much fertilizer will cause plants to grow too tall.
Diseases & Pests:
No major pests or diseases. Occasional mildew or rust can be prevented by dividing every few years to allow for enough air flow.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Cut when flowers 3/4 to fully open.