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Description
Helenium Rubinzwerg is a popular perennial flower that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Its common names include Sneezeweed, Helen’s Flower, and Swamp Sunflower. This plant is native to North America and can be found in many regions, including meadows, wetlands, and prairies. It is a low-maintenance plant that adds a pop of color to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helenium |
Appearance
Helenium Rubinzwerg grows up to 2-3 feet tall and spreads up to 1-2 feet wide. It has bright yellow, daisy-like flowers with a dark red center that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The leaves are dark green, lance-shaped, and slightly serrated. The stems are sturdy and upright, and the plant has a bushy habit. Overall, Helenium Rubinzwerg is a striking plant that adds vibrant color to any garden.
Care Guide
Helenium Rubinzwerg is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this perennial flower:- Water: Helenium Rubinzwerg prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water deeply once a week, especially during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilizer but can benefit from a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in the spring.- Soil: Helenium Rubinzwerg prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Add compost or aged manure to the soil to improve its quality.- Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate some shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Helenium Rubinzwerg is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helenium Rubinzwerg is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. If necessary, treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Helenium Rubinzwerg is native to North America and can be found in many regions, including meadows, wetlands, and prairies. It prefers moist soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. This plant is a great addition to a wildflower garden or a cottage garden.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Helenium Rubinzwerg a good cut flower?
A: Yes, Helenium Rubinzwerg makes an excellent cut flower. Its bright yellow flowers with a dark red center add a pop of color to any floral arrangement.
Q: Can Helenium Rubinzwerg be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Helenium Rubinzwerg can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Make sure the soil is well-drained and keep the plant well-watered.
Q: Does Helenium Rubinzwerg attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Helenium Rubinzwerg is a pollinator-friendly plant that attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to your garden.
Q: How do I propagate Helenium Rubinzwerg?
A: Helenium Rubinzwerg can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots attached. Replant the sections in well-drained soil and water thoroughly.
Related Plants
– Helenium autumnale (Common Sneezeweed)- Helenium Bigelovii (Bigelow’s Sneezeweed)- Helenium hoopesii (Hoopes’ Sneezeweed)- Helenium flexuosum (Purple-headed Sneezeweed)
References
– “Helenium ‘Rubinzwerg’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279252.- “Helenium Rubinzwerg.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/helenium-rubinzwerg.- “Helenium, Sneezeweed.” North Carolina State University Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/helenium-sneezeweed.
