Overview
Rudbeckia subtomentosa is a perennial in the genus Rudbeckia, part of the Asteraceae family. Rudbeckia subtomentosa grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, meadows and cut flowers. It is native to C USA.
About
Rudbeckia subtomentosa is a herbaceous perennial in the Asteraceae that bears yellow, brown-centred daisy-like flowers from July to October. It prefers full sun to partial shade and tolerates loam, sandy or clay soils that are moist yet well drained. Classed H5, it is hardy across most of the UK and is used in borders, meadows and for cutting.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Rudbeckia subtomentosa
About the genus
Rudbeckia is a plant genus in the Asteraceae or composite family. Rudbeckia flowers feature a prominent, raised central disc in black, brown shades of green, and in-between tones, giving rise to their familiar common names of coneflowers and black-eyed-susans. All are native to North America, and many species are cultivated in gardens for their showy yellow or gold flower heads that bloom in mid to late summer.
Wikipedia contributors, "Rudbeckia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Rudbeckia
In the garden
Rudbeckia subtomentosa, known as sweet coneflower, is an erect herbaceous perennial native to the central United States. It produces yellow, brown-centred, daisy-like blooms from July to October, extending colour into late summer and early autumn. Grow it in full sun to partial shade; it will take loam, sandy or clay soils and accepts a wide pH range (neutral to acidic to alkaline) provided the soil remains moist but well drained. The plant is classed H5, meaning it is hardy in most parts of the UK and will survive typical winter conditions without special protection. Use sweet coneflower in mixed perennial borders or meadow-style plantings where a summer-to-autumn display is required, and allow stems to be cut for floral work as needed. Because it tolerates heavier soils as well as lighter ones, it can sit where other sun-loving perennials struggle with occasional moisture. Selective cutting of spent stems will concentrate vigour on remaining shoots and preserve flowering into October.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Rudbeckia
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- loam, sandy, clay
- Soil pH
- neutral, acidic, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moist,well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Rudbeckia subtomentosa size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Suggested uses
- borders, meadows, cut flowers
- Native to
- C USA
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Rudbeckia subtomentosa
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates some drought once established; deadhead to prolong flowering.
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.
- Propagation
- seed,division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Rudbeckia subtomentosa?
Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates some drought once established; deadhead to prolong flowering.
Where is the best place to plant Rudbeckia subtomentosa?
Rudbeckia subtomentosa prefers full sun and partial shade.
What soil does Rudbeckia subtomentosa need?
Rudbeckia subtomentosa is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, sandy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist to well-drained.
How do I prune Rudbeckia subtomentosa?
Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.
Is Rudbeckia subtomentosa hardy in the UK?
Rudbeckia subtomentosa has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Rudbeckia subtomentosa?
Seed,division.
More in the Rudbeckia genus
- Rudbeckia mollisSoft Rudbeckia
- Rudbeckia nitidashining coneflower
- Rudbeckia nitida 'Goldquelle'Black-Eyed Susan
- Rudbeckia nitida 'Herbstsonne'
- Rudbeckia Summerdaisy's Bronze Bicolor
- Rudbeckia sub. 'Henry Eilers'Black-eyed Susan
- Rudbeckia sub. 'Little Henry'Black-eyed Susan