Helenium flexuosum, commonly known as Purplehead Sneezeweed or Purple-head Sneezeweed, is an annual flowering plant native to the United States. It is found in Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina Tennessee Texas Virginia Vermont Wisconsin and West Virginia.
It is also found in Canada where it has been introduced to the provinces of Nova Scotia Ontario and Quebec. This plant grows best in full sun and rich and moist soil.
The leaves of the Purplehead Sneezeweed are lanceolate in shape and range from 4 to 8 cm in length. They can be smooth or toothed on the margins. The plant has many stems that can reach up to 60 cm in height. The flowers are yellow daisy-like heads, up to 2 cm in diameter. The fruits are small, flattened achenes.
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Purplehead Sneezeweed is a popular garden ornamental and has been used in traditional medicines for centuries. It can be used to treat coughs, colds, and respiratory problems as well as gastrointestinal issues. It has also been used in folk remedies to treat fever, headaches, and skin irritations.
This species is not considered endangered or threatened, however, it can become invasive if not managed properly. Propagation is typically done through seed, which should be planted in the spring after all danger of frost has passed. It is important to deadhead faded flowers to prevent the plant from self-seeding. Regular weeding and watering will help to ensure that this species does not become a nuisance in your garden.
Helenium flexuosum Information
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Common Names | Purplehead Sneezeweed, Purple-head Sneezeweed |
| Native to USA | AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NH, NJ, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV |
| Introduced to CAN | NS, ON, QC |
| Size | 60 centimeters tall |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Helenium flexuosum edible?
No, Helenium flexuosum is not edible.
Is Helenium flexuosum an invasive species of plant?
No, Helenium flexuosum is not considered an invasive species of plant. However, it can become invasive if not managed properly.