About

This bushy, herbaceous perennial to 60cm tall, with rough, hairy stems. From late summer to autumn it produces daisy-like flowerheads composed of bright yellow ray florets around a central, black cone. The flowers are attract pollinating insects and are also good for cutting.

About the genus

Rudbeckia may be annuals, biennials or rhizomatous herbaceous perennials, with simple or pinnately divided leaves and large daisy-like flower-heads with yellow or orange rays surrounding a prominent conical disk

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationGrow in humus rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Able to tolerate drought once established. See rudbeckia cultivation for further advice
PruningDeadhead regularly. Can be cut back in autumn, though stems and seedheads persist well and can provide structure in winter
PropagationPropagate by seed or division
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and slugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Powdery mildews