Sneezeweed, Common sneezeweed, Fall sneezeweed, Mountain sneezeweed, False Sunflower

Helenium autumnale

Physical Characteristics

Helenium autumnale is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.8 m (6ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Quebec to Florida, west to Manitoba and Arizona.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Alterative Cancer Laxative Sternutatory The dried nearly mature flower heads are used in a powdered form as a snuff to treat colds and headaches[207, 222, 257]. When made into a tea they are used in the treatment of intestinal worms[222]. The powdered leaves are sternutatory[222, 257]. An infusion of the leaves is laxative and alterative[207]. An infusion of the stems has been used as a wash in the treatment of fevers[257]. The plant contains helenalin, a compound that has shown significant anti-tumour activity[222].

Known Hazards

The plant is poisonous to ruminants[222]. Contact with the plant might cause dermatitis in sensitive people[222].