RUDBECKIA
(coneflower)
Rudbeckia (or Coneflower or Black-eyed
Susan)
Rudbeckia originate from North America, this is why they like the sun in summer, but are
very hardy - North America has freezing winters, but gloriously
warm summers. Both annual and perennial varieties are readily available. The
reason for being nicknamed 'coneflower' is the black cone which is in the centre of
their flowers. Use them as border plants, or in pots. They come into flower
around the end of July, with medium sized golden yellow blooms, and will last
well past most other plants, right up to early November. They are excellent as cut flowers for
flower arrangements in the house.
GardenAction have grown quite a few varieties of Rudbeckia, and it is best to know that most
of them grow about 20% taller and wider than described on the seed packets, so
be careful that you space them a little further apart than recommended.
The only one we know which grows to height described on the seed packets is 'Marmalade' - a good variety,
but not one of our recommended varieties because the seed germination rate is only about 40%. 
Rudbeckia hirta 'Marmalade'
- it grows to the expected height!Cultivation
The best conditions are full sun in a well-drained or moist soil. They are tolerant of
partial shade and will grow well in most soils - in short, they are very
tolerant of most conditions, but don't let them get too dry.
Cultivation
'for beginners guide' (5 easy, 1hard) 
Propagation
Propagation of annuals is by sowing seed in autumn or spring; propagation of perennials is by
division (or seed) in spring. See recommended varieties below for specific
details.
Propagation
'for beginners guide' (5 easy, 1hard)
Overall
Rudbeckia are a definite winner, lots of colour, not too choosy about conditions, and
definitely 'low-maintenance' plants. They are excellent as cut-flowers for the
house. They have the added benefit that you can
propagate lots of new plants with a reasonable chance of success.
Overall
'for beginners guide' (5 best, 1worst)
Rudbeckia fulgida 'Suilvantii'
CLICK HERE FOR MORE ON RUDBECKIA
INCLUDING RECOMMENDED VARIETIES
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