Helenium

/həˈliniəm/ noun

Definition

A genus of flowering plants in the daisy family, commonly called sneezeweed, with yellow or reddish flowers that bloom in late summer.

Etymology

Named after Helen of Troy in classical mythology, assigned by Linnaeus following the tradition of naming plants after mythological figures. The common name 'sneezeweed' comes from the plant's historical use and effect.

Kelly Says

These flowers are named after Helen of Troy—one of history's most famous faces—and the plant actually makes you sneeze, so literally 'Helen's sneeze-maker' has been immortalized in botany for centuries!

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