Helenium, a Birthday Flower of September 28th

Helenium (ヘレニウム) is one of the birthday flowers of September 28th annually in Japan. It is also the birthday flower of October 12th. It is native to North America. Unfortunately, I don't know when it came to Japan. It comes in shades of yellow, orange, red and bronze. Interestingly, it is also called "Sneezeweed" in English.

In Japan, helenium typically blooms in September and October, meaning it is actually in bloom on the birth date that it represents. That is not always the case! Its bright flowers are also attractive to bees and butterflies, helping to support pollinators during the growing season.

The flower's Japanese flower language (hanakotoba) includes tears and cheerful. The latter probably comes from the flower's bright appearance. The former is also the floriography in the English language. 

Have you seen any Helenium in bloom yet this year?