Bitter Sneezeweed
Helenium amarum
Last reviewed: July 2026

Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 13 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees, nectar insects
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 411 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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Bitter sneezeweed is a native Texas annual wildflower that produces bright yellow daisy-like blooms from summer through late fall. This compact plant grows 1-3 feet tall with a narrow spread, making it suitable for smaller garden spaces. Despite its common name, it provides valuable nectar for pollinators during its extended blooming period.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bitter Sneezeweed is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Requires seasonal replanting
- May have messy dieback
Wildlife value
This plant is an excellent pollinator magnet, attracting butterflies, bees, and other nectar-feeding insects throughout its long blooming season. Its late-season flowers are particularly valuable when many other native plants have finished blooming.
Common questions
- How much sun does Bitter Sneezeweed need?
- Bitter Sneezeweed grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Bitter Sneezeweed bloom?
- Bitter Sneezeweed blooms in June, July, August, September, October, and November.
- Where is Bitter Sneezeweed native?
- Bitter Sneezeweed (Helenium amarum) is native to AL, AR, FL, GA and 13 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Bitter Sneezeweed attract?
- Bitter Sneezeweed draws butterflies, bees, and nectar insects.
- Is Bitter Sneezeweed HOA-friendly?
- Bitter Sneezeweed is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Bitter Sneezeweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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