Sneezeweed (Helenium ‘Zimbelstern’)

Sneezeweed

Features and Characteristics

Helenium is a genus of about 40 species of annuals and hebaceous perennials from North and Central America. They are found mostly in damp meadows and along the edges of woods. They have a long season of bloom.

Genus name comes from the Greek name helenion which is the name of a Greek plant which honors Helen of Troy. It is unclear as to the relevance of Helen of Troy to the within genus of plants which are exclusively native to North and South America.

Powdered disk flowers and leaves of this species have in the past been dried and used as snuff, thus giving rise to the common name of sneezeweed.

‘Zimbelstern’ is an erect, clump-forming perennial which typically grows 2-4′ on rigid stems. Features clusters of daisy-like flowers (2″ diameter) with distinctive wedge-shaped, bright yellow rays (notched at the tips) and prominent, dome-like, bronze center disks. Flowers appear over a lengthy late summer to autumn bloom period. Alternate, lance-shaped, dark green leaves (to 6″ long). This cultivar is synonymous with and sometimes sold as ‘Cymbal Star’.

Care and Maintenance

Grow in average, medium to wet, well-drained soil in full sun. Intolerant of dry soils. Avoid overfertilization which may cause plants to grow too tall. Although not required, plants may be cut back in early July (at least 6 weeks before normal flowering) to reduce plant height and encourage branching, thus leading to a more floriferous bloom, healthier foliage and less need for support. Remove spent flowers to encourage additional bloom. Divide clumps every three years to maintain vigor.

Sneezeweed (Helenium ‘Zimbelstern’) Requirements

Hardiness zone	3 - 8
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Medium To Wet
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

Susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot and rust. Most heleniums benefit from staking or other support. Deer tend to avoid this plant.

This cultivar reportedly has strong stems which do not require staking.

Uses

Provides late summer to fall bloom for the border. Also effective for prairies, meadows or wild gardens. Suitable for use as a cut flower.

Sneezeweed (Helenium ‘Zimbelstern’) Details

Common name	Sneezeweed
Botanical name	Helenium 'Zimbelstern'
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Asteraceae
Hardiness zone	3 - 8
Water	Medium To Wet
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Yellow Rays And Bronze Center Disks
Flowering period	August - Oc- Ber
Height	2 - 4 Ft.
Width	1 - 1.50 Feet