Bigelow’s sneezeweed (Helenium bigelovii, Pacif. Railr. Rep.: 107 (1857))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: A.Gray

Bibliography: Pacif. Railr. Rep.: 107 (1857)

Year: 1857

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Helenium

Vegetable: False

Observations: Oregon to California

Description

Bigelow’s sneezeweed, scientifically known as Helenium bigelovii, is a striking native wildflower that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This species was first documented in the mid-19th century by botanist Asa Gray, as recorded in the Pacific Railroad Reports of 1857.

The natural habitat of Bigelow’s sneezeweed extends from Oregon to California, where it typically thrives in moist meadows and along stream banks at varying elevations. This hardy perennial is well-adapted to the diverse climates of the Pacific Northwest and the mountainous regions of California, making it a resilient and common sight within its range.

Helenium bigelovii is distinguished by its vibrant yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The flowers are composed of prominent central disks surrounded by drooping yellow ray florets. This striking floral arrangement not only makes it appealing to the eye but also attracts a variety of pollinators, contributing to the local ecosystem. The plant’s robust stems and bushy foliage add to its ornamental value, making it a favored choice for naturalizing wetland areas and enhancing garden biodiversity.

Historically, Bigelow’s sneezeweed has not only been valued for its beauty but also for its name, which hints at a traditional use. Native American tribes are known to have used dried, powdered parts of the plant as a form of snuff to induce sneezing, believed to clear congestion and illnesses. However, it should be noted that all parts of the plant are considered toxic if ingested by humans or livestock, requiring careful handling and respect.

The propagation of Helenium bigelovii is relatively straightforward, typically achieved through seeds sown in the fall or by dividing established clumps in early spring. Gardeners and conservationists alike favor this hardy plant for its low maintenance requirements and its ability to enhance wetland restoration projects.

In summary, Bigelow’s sneezeweed is a significant and fascinating species native to the western United States. Its vivid yellow blooms, ecological contributions, and historical uses make it a plant worth recognizing and preserving in both natural and cultivated landscapes.

Common Names

Eng: bigelow’s sneezeweed
En: Bigelow’s sneezeweed

Synonyms

• Heleniastrum bigelowii (Kuntze)
• Helenium puberulum var. bigelovii ((A.Gray) Hoover)
• Heleniastrum rivulare (Greene)
• Helenium rivulare (Rydb.)

Distribution

• California (native)
• Oregon (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 21, 2010 by Pedro Gaspar (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5401914)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:118708-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Helenium bigelovii A.Gray)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth