 Often seen growing in mountain meadows and open woods throughout the west, Owl's Claws will be familiar to many a mountain wanderer. Also known as Orange Sneezeweed or Mountain Helenium,the robust, clump-forming perennial can be found adorning many a western wildland with its cheery golden blooms, brightening the long days of summer.
This mountain wildflower native to the Sierra Nevada and beyond, is a tough plant, adapting readily to various moisture regimes and soil types. Owl's Claws' large, woody taproot arms it for the seasonal variability the plant has come to expect, including drastic temperature extremes and cyclical fluctuations in available water. As a bonus, the muscular, gray green basal foliage is apparently impervious to the browsing of rabbits and deer.
Beginning as early as May and continuing until September, the 3" golden blossoms adorn stout, branched stalks, attracting both native bees and butterflies. Fear not: Despite one of the plant's common names of "Sneezeweed", the radiant flowers do not cause allergies. Great as a cut flower, the sophisticated daisy form of the flower adds a sculptural element to a familiar form. The cental cone, ranging in color from yellow to rusty orange, protrudes from the reflexed rays, contributing dimension and a somewhat wild look to floral arrangements. With flowering stalks reaching up to 3' in height, this long blooming perennial should supply ample creative opportunity for the floral designer, while adding a decidedly perky note to cutting gardens, containers, and native gardens. |
