Approximately 150 seeds per packet
Collected & Packaged: 2025
Germination code: None
Please refer to our germination codes and growing information for recommendations and tips.
Seed treatment recommended: this species germinates when temperatures are warm and doesn't need a cold treatment. Seeds sown in winter may germinate in late winter or early spring.
Surface sow only: this species has small or tiny, dust-particle-sized seeds that require light to germinate. Sown seed should only be sprinkled over the surface of pre-moistened soil, and not covered or buried beneath the soil. Water lightly with a light spray or mist to keep the soil moist. Be careful when watering before germination occurs to not bury the seeds.
Helenium autumnale (Common sneezeweed) Seed Packet
Virginia ecotype
Duration: Perennial
Habit: Upright, clump-forming, naturalizing
Size: Typically 3 to 5 feet tall; about 1.5 to 2.5 feet wide
Flowering Time: August - October
Bloom Color: Bright yellow with domed yellow to orange central disks
Habitat: Moist meadows, stream banks, pond edges, marshes, and ditches
Moisture: Moist to wet; tolerates seasonal flooding
Light: Full sun to part sun, best in full sun but needs more moisture
Soils: Loamy or clay soils; prefers rich, moist conditions but tolerates varied soils
Uses: Pollinator gardens, rain gardens, meadow and wetland restoration, cut flower gardens, late-season bloom supportHelenium autumnale, often called common sneezeweed or autumn sneezeweed, is a species that turns stream banks and marsh edges into a sea of golden yellow when in bloom late summer into fall. The flowers have a distinctive button-like appearance, with notable round golden colored disks.
Despite its name, the plant does not trigger sneezing; the name comes from the historical use of its dried leaves in powdered snuff to induce sneezing.
This plant thrives in consistently moist soils and can grow 3 to 5 feet tall, forming dense, upright clumps that add structure and late-season color to wetland edges, rain gardens, and moist pollinator gardens. Because of its upright habit and long blooming period, it is also suitable for cut flower use and for adding vertical interest to native garden beds.
Ecologically, Helenium support a wide variety of native pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and syrphid flies. It is especially valuable for providing nectar and pollen during the late season, when fewer native plants are in bloom. Additionally, Helenium support several specialist bees.
Deer and rabbits tend to avoid Helenium, making it a resilient option in landscapes with browsing pressure.