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Description
Helenium Autumnale is a beautiful herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to North America and is commonly found in the eastern United States. It is also known as the Sneezeweed due to its ability to cause sneezing if the dried leaves are inhaled.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helenium |
Appearance
The Helenium Autumnale plant can grow up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has a clumping habit with long, slender stems that bear lance-shaped leaves. The leaves are dark green and have a rough texture. The plant produces numerous flowerheads with bright yellow, daisy-like petals and dark brown centers. The flowerheads are about 2 inches wide and bloom in late summer to early fall.
Care Guide
Helenium Autumnale is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in most growing conditions. Here are some care tips to help your plant grow healthy:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering, and it’s important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade to bloom fully.
- Hardiness Zones: Helenium Autumnale can grow in hardiness zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helenium Autumnale is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, the plant may be susceptible to powdery mildew, spider mites, and aphids. Regularly inspecting the plant and using insecticidal soap can help prevent infestations. Additionally, removing any infected leaves or stems can help control the spread of diseases.
Habitat
Helenium Autumnale is commonly found in meadows, prairies, and along roadsides in the eastern United States. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy or clay soil. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions once established.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Helenium Autumnale a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, Helenium Autumnale is a great plant for pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can Helenium Autumnale be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Helenium Autumnale can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering than when growing in the ground.
Q: How often should I fertilize Helenium Autumnale?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Helenium Autumnale?
A: The plant can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Helenium Bigelovii
- Helenium Hoopesii
- Helenium Flexuosum
- Helenium Mardi Gras
References
- “Helenium Autumnale.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=265261&isprofile=0&basic=helenium%20autumnale.
- “Helenium Autumnale.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/helenium-autumnale.
- “Helenium Autumnale.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/helenium-autumnale-plant-profile-5079422.
