We planted a few of the Mariachi™ series of Helenium in our garden and we really love watching them come into bloom mid to late summer. Small yellow/green buds rise up and emerge all over the plant in a beautiful display of burgundy and yellow. The unfortunate common name "Sneezeweed" steers some away from this native plant, but it doesn't cause any allergies. The pollen is collected and beloved by lots of native bees who flock to the blooms midsummer and is not carried on the wind. The plants themselves are great mid-garden planted in a small mass. They keep a tidy somewhat vertical shape with blooms dotting the plant from base to top. The cones in the flowers are a very interesting feature as they have a halo of yellow that terminates in a chocolate center. They make excellent flowers for a butterfly garden and are a perfect flower for your late fall garden. Helenium provide excellent fall color and plenty of energy for pollinators storing up for the winter ahead.

General care for any tree or shrub is easy, but like any living thing will require your attention. Please educate yourself and follow these simple rules.

Helenium Mariachi™ 'Bandera'

In the native environment these flowers can be found at the edge of the woods, low meadows and moist prairie. Helenium do well in soil that is moist, high in organic matter, well fertilized, and in full sun. Dry soil results in plants that are leggy and small. Plants can be pinched back by half in late sprint to encourage more sturdy compact, full growth. Deadheading the flowers will result in reblooming. You can divide your plants every 3-4 years to promote more vigorous growth and good airflow.