Sneezeweed Helenium autumnale 'Short and Sassy' (PBR)
ABOUT
Helenium autumnale 'Short and Sassy', commonly known as sneezeweed, is a vibrant perennial that exudes a lively presence in the garden. This plant boasts a bushy clump of green leaves that set the stage for its main attraction: the profusion of daisy-like flowers. Each blossom is a showy spectacle, with a round, raised central cone that is typically a rich yellow to deep red-brown shade, surrounded by petals that radiate outward in hues of yellow, orange, and red. The distinctively colored cone gives a pincushion-like appearance to each flower head. The petals are often arranged in multiple layers, with the tips sometimes adorned with fine, frilly edges that contribute to the plant’s playful demeanor. These colorful blooms create a warm, autumnal palette that can ignite any garden space with the colors of the changing seasons. The flowers of the sneezeweed also frequently attract butterflies and other pollinators, adding life and movement to its display. Sneezeweed is celebrated not just for its aesthetic appeal but for its late-season flowering period, contributing vibrant splashes of color when many other plants have already finished blooming. The overall impression of Helenium autumnale 'Short and Sassy' is of a cheery, robust plant that brings a sense of joy and a burst of late-summer to autumn color to any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Sneezeweed, Helen's Flower, Autumn Sneezeweed.
Common names
Helenium autumnale 'Short and Sassy' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Commonly known as sneezeweed, Helenium autumnale 'Short and Sassy' (PBR) is generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, sensitivity varies from person to person, and it may cause minor irritations or allergic reactions if ingested or handled. No significant toxicity is expected from eating this plant.
To pets
Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale) has some level of toxicity to pets, particularly horses, if ingested in large quantities. For cats and dogs, it's typically considered non-toxic but can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, if consumed. The primary concern is mostly for horses, in which larger amounts of ingestion could lead to symptoms like oral irritation, excessive salivation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, incoordination and other signs of systemic illness might occur.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Compact Size: 'Short and Sassy' is a smaller cultivar, making it suitable for smaller gardens or spaces.
- Long Blooming: This variety has a prolonged blooming period that extends from mid-summer into autumn.
- Attracts Pollinators: It is attractive to butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, encouraging biodiversity.
- Low Maintenance: The plant is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Disease Resistant: It demonstrates good resistance to common garden diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods of drought, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Vibrant Colors: The flowers provide a bright splash of color, with yellow to orange-red blooms that enliven the garden landscape.
- Deer Resistant: It's less palatable to deer, which helps prevent browsing damage in areas where deer are a problem.
- Seasonal Interest: The 'Short and Sassy' adds visual interest to the garden throughout the growing season, especially during bloom time.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Helenium autumnale 'Short and Sassy' can be used for educational purposes in botany and horticulture classes to demonstrate plant breeding and cultivar development.
- This plant, commonly known as sneezeweed, can serve as a subject for photography enthusiasts, capturing its vibrant colors and unique form.
- Sneezeweed makes for an attractive addition to wildlife gardens, as it attracts butterflies and other pollinators, enhancing biodiversity.
- The plant can be included in sustainable landscaping designs, where its drought resistance is valuable in conserving water.
- In craft, the dried flower heads of the sneezeweed can be incorporated into floral arrangements and wreaths for autumn decor.
- Its compact size makes it suitable for container gardening, adding a splash of color to balconies and patios.
- Sneezeweed can be used as part of a natural dye garden, where the petals may produce varying shades of yellow and orange dyes.
- The plant's ability to thrive in difficult soils can be utilized in erosion control projects where other plants might not survive.
- When used in a sensory garden, the sneezeweed's distinct foliage texture and colorful flowers provide a tactile and visual experience.
- Garden designers might use sneezeweed as a living paintbrush, incorporating its bright flowers into the landscape to create patterns or swaths of color.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Sneezeweed is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Sneezeweed is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Helenium autumnale, commonly known as sneezeweed, is tied to the legend of Helen of Troy, and its genus invokes healing since it is said to have sprung from where her tears fell.
- Protection: In ancient times, sneezeweed was believed to have protective qualities, particularly because it could be used to make snuff that would drive away evil spirits with sneezing.
- Grief: The association with Helen of Troy's tears also adds a layer of meaning connected to grief and sorrow.
- Perseverance: Sneezeweed blooms in the late season when many other plants have faded, symbolizing endurance and the ability to thrive in adversity.
WaterSneezeweed 'Short and Sassy' prefers consistent moisture, so it should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Depending on weather conditions, this might mean watering once or twice a week. During hot or dry periods, more frequent watering may be required, possibly every two to three days. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Each watering session should provide enough water to moisten the soil to a depth of about 8 inches, which could be approximately 1-2 gallons depending on the size and type of soil.
LightSneezeweed 'Short and Sassy' thrives in full sun, which means it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for this plant is in an area that receives unfiltered sunlight for most of the day. However, in locations with particularly hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent scorching.
TemperatureSneezeweed 'Short and Sassy' can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in conditions between 50°F and 75°F. It is hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F but may struggle and potentially suffer damage in extreme heat if temperatures consistently exceed 90°F.
PruningPruning Sneezeweed 'Short and Sassy' is primarily done to maintain shape, remove spent flowers, and encourage a second bloom. Deadhead regularly by cutting back the spent flower heads to a set of leaves. In early spring, prune back any dead or old stems to encourage fresh growth. The best time for major pruning is early spring or after the plant finishes flowering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSneezeweed 'Short and Sassy' thrives in a well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 7.0. The best soil mix would consist of loamy soil enriched with compost to ensure good fertility and moisture retention while still allowing excess water to drain away to prevent root rot.
RepottingThe Sneezeweed 'Short and Sassy' does not typically require frequent repotting. It should be repotted when it outgrows its current container or starts to show signs of crowding, which is roughly every 2 to 3 years.
Humidity & MistingSneezeweed 'Short and Sassy' is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions, making it suitable for typical outdoor environments without the need for special adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade in fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleHelenium autumnale 'Short and Sassy' (commonly known as Sneezeweed) begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in spring when the soil warms. The seedling emerges and develops into a vegetative plant, growing leaves and stems throughout late spring and early summer. As the plant matures, it forms a clump of foliage and begins its flower development, usually in mid to late summer. Blooming occurs in late summer to fall, showcasing vibrant yellow, red, or orange flowers with a distinctive dome-shaped center. After pollination, often by insects attracted to the flowers, seeds are produced and dispersed around the parent plant. With the onset of colder weather, Sneezeweed dies back to the ground, with the root system surviving winter to repeat the cycle the following year.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Summer to Early Fall
Helenium autumnale 'Short and Sassy,' commonly known as Helen's Flower or Sneezeweed, is best propagated by division, which is the most popular method for this perennial plant. Division should be performed in the spring or early fall when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of Helenium, making sure to preserve as much of the root system as possible. The clump can then be gently pulled apart into smaller sections, each with its own set of roots and shoots. These divisions can be immediately replanted in well-draining soil, spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to give each new plant room to grow. Ensuring the plants are well-watered after transplanting will help them establish in their new locations. This method maintains the true characteristics of the 'Short and Sassy' cultivar and can rejuvenate older plants that have become less vigorous.
