About

A compact, clump-forming herbaceous perennial, to around 50cm high, with lance-shaped, slightly toothed, rough green leaves. Daisy-like flowers to 15cm across are produced from mid summer to autumn, with a dark brown central cone, a ring of burnt orange in the centre, and golden yellow tips to the petals.

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 hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, 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. May need protection in cold winters. See rudbeckia cultivation for more detailed advice
PruningSpent flowering stems may be cut back, or left to provide winter interest
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, and to slugs on young growth
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, especially on dry soils