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Description
Helenium Bigelovii, also known as Bigelow’s sneezeweed, is an herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to western North America, including Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming. It has a clumping growth habit and produces numerous flowers that bloom from mid-summer to fall. The flowers are daisy-like and have yellow, orange or red petals surrounding a brownish-yellow center disk.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliophyta |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helenium |
Appearance
The Helenium Bigelovii plant grows up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. It has green leaves that are lance-shaped and alternate along the stem. The leaves are 2-5 inches long and have serrated edges. The flowers grow on sturdy stems that rise above the foliage. They are 2-3 inches in diameter and have yellow, orange or red petals surrounding a brownish-yellow center disk. The flowers have a long blooming period and attract butterflies and bees.
Care Guide
Water: Helenium Bigelovii prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause excessive growth and reduce flowering.Soil: Helenium Bigelovii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.Sunlight: Helenium Bigelovii prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to bloom.Hardiness Zones: Helenium Bigelovii is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helenium Bigelovii is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. To avoid these issues, ensure proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Spider mites and aphids can occasionally infest the plant, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Helenium Bigelovii is native to western North America, including Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming. It grows in open meadows, prairies, and rocky slopes. It prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I propagate Helenium Bigelovii?
A: Helenium Bigelovii can be propagated by division or by stem cuttings in the spring or fall.Q: Can Helenium Bigelovii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Helenium Bigelovii can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container has adequate drainage holes.Q: How often should I fertilize Helenium Bigelovii?
A: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause excessive growth and reduce flowering.Q: Can Helenium Bigelovii tolerate frost?
A: Yes, Helenium Bigelovii is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate frost.
Related Plants
- Helenium autumnale
- Helenium flexuosum
- Helenium hoopesii
- Helenium microcephalum
References
- “Helenium Bigelovii – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed March 16, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285286&isprofile=0.
- “Helenium Bigelovii.” Plant Database. Accessed March 16, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HEBI2.
- “Helenium Bigelovii.” Colorado State University Extension. Accessed March 16, 2021. https://extension.colostate.edu/docs/pubs/garden/07206.pdf.
