Family: Asteraceae

According to Greek legend, these flowers grew from the tears of Helen of Troy, hence the generic name. They are hardy perennials and produce summer and autumn daisy flowers, with very prominent centers, and they are excellent for cutting. The flowers come in a range of autumn shades.

Species

H. autumnale, sneezeweed, grows to 1.5 m (5 ft) and has yellow flowers with brown centers. 'Moerheim Beauty' and 'Wyndley' are two popular cultivars. 'Moerheim Beauty' pro­duces flowers in shades of russet.

H. bigelovii, to 1 m (3 ft), also has brown and yellow flowers.

Cultivation

Heleniums prefer a rich soil and a sunny position. They are very hardy, making useful plants for holiday homes. Propagate from seed or by division of existing plants in autumn. Water well while young.

Climate

Zone 3 for H. auturnnale, Zone 7 for H. bigelovii.