Overview:
Latin Name:
Common Name(s): Black-eyed Susan, Brown-eyed Susan, Conedisk, Conedisk Sunflower, Gloriosa Daisy Tall Coneflower
USDA Hardiness Zones:
Size:
Exposure:
Bloom Period:
Description:
Design Tips:
Suggested Varieties:
- R. fulgida var. sullivantii ‘Goldsturm’ ‘Goldsturm’ - The standard for Rudbeckia. Long blooming and virtually pest free. (2')
- R. hirta ‘Cherokee Sunset’ - Double and semi-double flowers in shades of yellow, orange, red, bronze and mahogany. Short lived, but re-seeds itself.(2')
- R. hirta ‘Indian Summer’ - Traditional daisy-like, large yellow flowers. Short lived, but re-seeds itself or grow as an annual. (3-4')
- Rudbeckia 'Toto Rustic' - A dwarf Rudbeckia in fall colors. There're also golden 'Toto' & pale 'Toto Lemon'.
- R. maxima Giant Coneflower - 5" flowers and 1-2' leaves on an imposing plant ( 5' -9'')
Growing Tips:
Rudbeckia can be started indoors, from seed. Plant about 6-8 weeks before last expected frost. Perennial varieties will germinate best is kept in the refrigerator or similarly cold place for 4 weeks after planting. Then move them back to a warm spot (70ºF-72ºF) until seeds actually germinate..
Rudbeckia can also be direct seeded in the garden once daytime temperatures remain around 60ºF. Of course, plants can be purchased and transplanted.
They are not particular about soil, but do best in soil that is not too rich, with well-draining conditions.
Maintenance: Keep plants well watered the first season, to get them established. Once established, the will be quite drought resistant.
Go easy on the fertilizer. Too much will result in weak stems and plants. A side dressing of compost should be all they’ll need.
Regular deadheading of the faded flowers will keep the plants in bloom longer. You can let the last flowers of the season remain on the plants to go to seed and feed the birds, but you will also get a good deal of self-seeding.
Division is only necessary if the clump gets too large for its space. Rudbeckias don’t generally die out in the center and require regular division.
Pests & Problems: Rudbeckia are deer resistant once their leaves become coarse and hairy, but tender young growth may get nibbled.
Powdery mildew will affect the leaves in hot, humid conditions. Minimize this by planting in full sun and thinning the plants to allow for good air circulation.
