Culture
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.
Noteworthy 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.
'Ruby Charm' is a compact, hybrid cultivar of sneezeweed with deep red petals and maroon-brown center cones. Unlike other cultivars of sneezeweed which have downsweeping petals, 'Ruby Charm' has horizontal to slightly upturned petals. Individual plants can reach 2' tall with a 1' spread. The stems are sturdy and make excellent cut flowers. Attractive to butterflies and other insect pollinators.
Problems
Susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot and rust. Most heleniums benefit from staking or other support. Deer tend to avoid this plant.
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.