Rudbeckia fulgida var. deamii (Black-Eyed Susan)

Adding drama to the late-season garden, award-winning Rudbeckia fulgida var. deamii is a clump-forming, erect perennial boasting masses of rich golden yellow flowers, 3 in. across (7 cm), from late summer through mid-fall. Borne on sturdy stems, each charming flower counts up to 12-20 rays that surround a prominent chocolate central cone. They are produced in such profusion that they literally cover the foliage of oval, dark green leaves. The dense chocolate seed heads persist into early winter, adding further interest. Strong, vigorous, and pest resistant, this beautiful Rudbeckia species is an excellent choice for the middle of a late summer border.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
• Grows up to 2-3 ft. tall (60-90 cm) and 1-2 ft. wide (30-60 cm).
• Thrives in full sun or partial shade in moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soils. Best flower production occurs in full sun, although this plant will tolerate some light shade.
• Spectacular when massed in drifts, this is an excellent choice for perennial borders, cottage or coastal gardens, prairies, and meadows.
• Extremely easy to grow, Rudbeckia plays well with other hot-colored perennials or with the cool blues and purples of geraniums and asters.
• Robust, low maintenance, and highly disease resistant, it is also drought tolerant.
• Attractive to butterflies, it is deer and rabbit-resistant.
• Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame in early spring. Propagate by division in spring or autumn
• Remove spent flowers to promote further blooms and maintain a neat appearance.
• Native to the central United States.