Bitter Sneezeweed

Helenium amarum

Weed Description
A annual with extreme branching results in producing masses of yellow disk shaped florets.

Leaves
Bitter sneezeweed leaves are alternate, ranging from 2-7cm long and very narrow measuring 1-4mm in width. Upper leaves are linear, entire, and on flowering plants basal leaves are not usually present.

Flowers
Disk florets that are yellow in color measuring 5-10mm in lenght.

Roots
Fibrous root system from taproot.

Identifying Characteristics
Highly branched, yellow inflorescences containing many short exposed peduncles. Bitter sneezeweed is native to North America and is found in many locations such as fields, prairies, and openings in woods. Toxic properties are associated with bitter sneezeweed, toxins have been known to cause digestive disturbance, tainted milk, and loss of appetite. These primary effects normally do not kill livestock but due to secondary complications death can occur.

Trouble identifying a weed?

For additional assistance identifying weeds, contact Dr. Kevin Braldly, State Extension Weed Scientist (bradleyke@missouri.edu).

Office of Programs

University of Missouri

Bitter Sneezeweed

Helenium amarum

Trouble identifying a weed?