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Description
Helenium Drummondii, commonly known as Drummond’s Sneezeweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can grow up to a height of 3 feet. The plant produces yellow or orange-yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. The flowers have a central disk surrounded by overlapping petals, giving them a daisy-like appearance. Helenium Drummondii is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add some color to their garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helenium |
Appearance
Helenium Drummondii has a clumping growth habit and can spread up to 2 feet wide. The plant produces hairy stems and leaves that are dark green in color. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers of Helenium Drummondii are bright yellow or orange-yellow and have a diameter of 2 to 3 inches. The central disk of the flower is dark brown and is surrounded by overlapping petals. The plant blooms from July to October and can add a splash of color to any garden.
Care Guide
Water
Helenium Drummondii prefers moist soil and requires regular watering. The plant should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. However, care should be taken not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized twice a year – once in the spring and once in the fall. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended.
Soil
Helenium Drummondii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.
Sunlight
The plant thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Helenium Drummondii can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helenium Drummondii is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and spider mites. These can be controlled by applying a fungicide or insecticide according to the instructions on the label.
Habitat
Helenium Drummondii is native to North America and can be found growing in moist meadows, prairies, and along stream banks. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should Helenium Drummondii be watered?
A: The plant should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season.
Q: In which USDA hardiness zones can Helenium Drummondii grow?
A: Helenium Drummondii can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Q: What is the ideal pH level for the soil in which Helenium Drummondii grows?
A: The soil should have a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Helenium Drummondii?
A: Helenium Drummondii can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and spider mites.
Related Plants
- Helenium autumnale
- Helenium flexuosum
- Helenium hoopesii
- Helenium amarum
References
- “Helenium Drummondii – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b710
- “Helenium Drummondii.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/helenium-drummondii/
- “Helenium Drummondii.” Gardening Know How, gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/sneezeweed/growing-drummonds-sneezeweed.htm
