Rudbeckia hirta Autumn Colors (Black-Eyed Susan)

Highly floriferous, Rudbeckia hirta 'Autumn Colors' is a compact, biennial or short-lived perennial, usually grown as an annual, boasting large, golden flowers flushed with red, rust, and bronze, up to 5 in. across (12 cm) – one of the largest blooms among Rudbeckia. Blooming profusely from early summer to frost, it provides weeks of eye-catching color and makes a guaranteed garden attraction. The delightful blossoms rise atop sturdy, upright stems and clumps of dark green leaves. An outstanding cut flower, its seed heads have good winter interest unless they are used in dried arrangements.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows in upright clumps up to 18-24 in. tall and wide (45-60 cm). May survive up to a few seasons but will self-seed and remain in the garden.
• Thrives in full sun in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Drought tolerant once established.
• Ridiculously easy to grow and largely trouble-free, this rudbeckia is a great candidate for mixed borders, cutting gardens, or as an accent plant when planted in mass.
• Deer-resistant, the flowers are attractive to pollinating insects, butterflies, and birds.
• Remove and discard spent flowers to encourage extended blooming and prevent unwanted seedlings next season.
• Easily propagated by seed.
• Rudbeckia hirta is native to Eastern and Central North America.