Sneezeweed Helenium 'Double Trouble' (PBR)

Names

• Family

  Asteraceae

• Synonyms

  Double Trouble Sneezeweed, Helen's Flower

• Common names

  Helenium 'Double Trouble' (PBR)

Toxicity

• To humans

  Helenium, commonly known as sneezeweed, generally possesses low toxicity to humans. However, it can potentially cause skin irritation upon contact with the sap or skin reactions in sensitive individuals. If ingested, it might cause mild upset stomach or more significant digestive distress. It's not commonly known for severe toxicity, but as with any plant that isn't typically consumed, it should be treated with caution around children who might ingest it out of curiosity.

• To pets

  Helenium, known commonly as sneezeweed, has low to mild toxicity when it comes to pets such as dogs and cats. If your pet chews on or ingests parts of the sneezeweed plant, they might experience mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea. While it's not known to be severely toxic, it's good practice to prevent your pets from ingesting plants that are not intended for consumption. If you observe any unusual symptoms or behaviors in your pet after they have had access to the plant, it would be wise to consult a veterinarian.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  3 feet [0.91 meters]

• Spread

  2 feet [0.61 meters]

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  4

• Native area

  North America

General Benefits

• Attracts pollinators: Helenium 'Double Trouble' is known to attract butterflies and bees, promoting pollination in the garden.
• Drought tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of dry weather, reducing the need for frequent watering.
• Low maintenance: This perennial requires minimal upkeep aside from occasional deadheading to prolong blooming.
• Long blooming: Provides a long season of color, typically from midsummer to fall, adding interest to the garden for an extended period.
• Deer resistance: Less likely to be eaten by deer, which can be beneficial in areas where deer browsing is a problem.
• Vibrant color: Offers bright yellow double flowers that create a cheerful display in garden beds and borders.
• Adaptable: Can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, as long as the soil is well-drained.
• Landscape versatility: Suitable for wildflower gardens, cottage gardens, and as part of perennial borders, providing flexibility in garden design.
• Cut flowers: The flowers are suitable for cutting and can be used to create attractive bouquets.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Helenium 'Double Trouble' can be used in crafting, such as pressing the flowers for decorative artwork.
• The plant can serve as a natural dye source; the petals may be used to give fabrics a yellow-orange hue.
• It can be used in photography to add vibrancy and a focal point to garden landscape photography.
• The sturdy stems make it suitable for use in floral arrangements or bouquets, providing both height and color.
• The blooms can be utilized as an educational tool for botany and horticulture students studying flower structures and pollinators.
• As ground cover in large garden spaces, Helenium 'Double Trouble' can help suppress weeds with its dense growth.
• Helenium 'Double Trouble' can be planted to create a habitat that supports butterflies and beneficial insects within a permaculture garden.
• The flowers can be integrated into a sensory garden, where their bright colors and soft textures can be enjoyed.
• The plant can be used as a natural border to define areas within a garden or outdoor space.
• In seasonal celebrations, such as autumnal festivals, the plant's vibrant flowers can contribute to the festive décor and atmosphere.

Feng Shui

The Sneezeweed is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Sneezeweed is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Healing: Helenium 'Double Trouble', commonly known as sneezeweed, often signifies healing, as the plant was traditionally used for its medicinal properties.
• Grief: Sneezeweed's name, Helenium, is derived from Helen of Troy, and the plant is said to have grown from her tears, symbolizing grief and sorrow.
• Perseverance: With its sturdy nature and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, sneezeweed also represents perseverance and overcoming challenges.