Out in the Garden

Sneezweed in Abundance

Compliments are also in abundance this year, particularly from visitors as they view the Pollinator Garden. Many have commented on how huge most of the perennials have become in just a few years. Fortunately, plants are placed in close proximity, providing support for their neighbors as they reach impressive heights. Rising to over six feet tall is a resplendent member of the aster family, Helenium autumnale ‘Zimbelstern’, or sneezeweed. There are approximately 30 species of Helenium in the United States and the parent species of the cultivar ‘Zimbelstern’ has a wide distribution. ‘Zimbelstern’ prefers full sun, and damp to wet soils. The number of blooms per plant can be profuse. Each bloom consists of showy ray flowers that look like petals, slightly reflexed and toothed, and a prominent ball of tiny disk flowers. Both flower types, especially the disk, contain attractive hues of auburn and orange. Another Helenium cultivar in the Pollinator Garden, ‘Sahin’s Early Flower’ (above) displays more of these hues, but does not grow as tall.

One would guess that the common name of Helenium is based on a tendency to cause one to sneeze when inhaling its pollen. In reality, it does not, but the genus was historically dried and crushed to create snuff. In many cultures, snuff was inhaled to induce sneezing, and sneezing was considered a good way to rid the body of illness or evil spirits. Perhaps it was a bit risky for those who tried this practice, as H. autumnale is poisonous to humans if ingested, as well as a skin and mucous membrane irritant. Beyond human use, the genus serves as a favorite for a wide array of pollinating insects.