About
A clump-forming herbaceous perennial, up to 2m high, with oval to lance-shaped green leaves to 30cm long. From mid summer to early autumn, leafy branching stems bear unusual flowers, consisting only of a tall, brown-black cone surrounded by green bracts at the base.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile soil that does not dry out. Will tolerate light shade but flowering is best in full sun. Divide every 3-5 years to maintain vigour. See rudbeckia cultivation for more detailed advice
PruningSpent flowering stems may be cut back, or left to provide winter interest
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, to leaf and bud eelworms, and to slugs on young growth
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, especially on dry soils