Contents
Description
Helenium Brevifolium, also known as “Shortleaf Sneezeweed,” is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to the United States and can be found in the central and eastern regions of the country. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and produces small, yellow flowers in the summer and fall months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helenium |
Appearance
Helenium Brevifolium has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are 2-3 inches long and hairy. The leaves are dark green in color and grow in a rosette pattern at the base of the plant. The stem of the plant is also hairy and can be either green or reddish-brown in color. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that are about an inch in diameter and have a dark center. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall months and are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Water
Helenium Brevifolium prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant does not require frequent fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the early spring.
Soil
Helenium Brevifolium grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Helenium Brevifolium is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helenium Brevifolium is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Helenium Brevifolium is native to the central and eastern regions of the United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, and woodland edges.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should Helenium Brevifolium be fertilized?
A: Helenium Brevifolium does not require frequent fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the early spring.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Helenium Brevifolium?
A: Helenium Brevifolium is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Q: What is the ideal growing condition for Helenium Brevifolium?
A: Helenium Brevifolium grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It also prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Helenium Brevifolium?
A: Helenium Brevifolium is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
– Helenium autumnale- Helenium bigelovii- Helenium flexuosum- Helenium hoopesii- Helenium microcephalum
References
– “Helenium Brevifolium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 27, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c303.- “Helenium Brevifolium – Shortleaf Sneezeweed.” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed July 27, 2021. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/shortl_sneezex.htm.
