The beautiful Helenium 'Sombrero' reaches just 50-70cm or so, unlike many other Heleniums which can spread almost uncontrollably and be several metres high. This one is ideal for the front of, or mid-way in a border—as well as is patio pot or container. 'Sombrero' is one of a number of heleniums (also known as sneezeweed) in a series known as the Mariachi Series, named because their colours reflect the hot sunshine of Mexico and Central America. 

Bred in The Netherlands, Helenium 'Sombrero' was only released to the gardening audience a few years ago. It is a compact, clump-forming, herbaceous perennial with a neat, branching habit. dense, oblong, dark green leaves. It will be at its absolute best in full sun. From late summer into autumn, upright stems carrying bright yellow, daisy-like flowers. In the centre of each bloom is a greenish yellow cone. The flowers are loved by bees, butterflies and other pollinators and, even better, the blooms may be cut for indoor decoration, where they last well in water to give that extra period of pleasure. Sometimes mildew can affect sneezeweed, but Helenium autumnale 'Sombrero' offers excellence resistance to this fungal problem.