Description

A much-branched, hairy-stemmed plant with small, deep gold flowers. More floriferous and with smaller flowers than R. hirta (black-eyed Susan). A naturalizing, happy self-seeder with the tendency to be a biennial or short-lived perennial (but maintaining a presence in the garden by reseeding). First year basal foliage grows only to 12″; maximum height is achieved in the second year when blooming. Leaves are thin and rough-textured on both sides. Attracts birds. Easy to grow. Best in moist, organically rich soils. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional bloom. P.S. No one knows who Susan is! Height: 2-3 ft. Spread: 1-1.5 ft. Family: Asteraceae Bloom time: July to October Sun: full sun Water: medium Rain garden According to Rutgers University, Rudbeckia are “seldom severely damaged” by deer. photo credit: David J. Stang