Some say this plant was named after Helen of Troy who is
                                          said to have had a handful of the plant when Paris stole her away.
                                                              This is a very striking perennial also known as the wild
                                          sunflower. It is very sturdy and has woolly stems. The flowers are
                                          numerous, 3-4 inches across, resembling sunflowers. It grows 4-6 feet
                                          in heighth and flowers during the summer.The plant prefers a clay loam
                                          that is moist and a slightly shaded location.If you are going to harvest
                                          the roots, you must do so in the fall of the plants second year after two
                                          hard frosts.
                                                               American Indians used the root to treat bronchial and
                                          other lung ailments. Herbalists throughout the world have used the root
                                          for treating diseases of the chest and coughs. Elecampane can still be
                                          used today for minor respiratory ailments by drinking a tea made from
                                          the root. Simmer an ounce of the root stock in a pint of water and let
                                          cool. The rootstock has also been candied and eaten by itself.
                                                                Elecampane can also be used in many outdoor flower
                                           gardens and natural habitats. Very good to use in dried flower
                                           arrangements.