Rudbeckia (Coneflower / Black-eyed-susans)

Plant family

Daisy family (Asteraceae)

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Sunny

Water requirement

Moist

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

Low

Plant distance

20 cm

Row spacing

20 cm

Seeding depth

1 cm

Instructions

Description

Rudbeckia belongs to the daisy family (Asteraceae). There are 20-23 species. They are cultivated as ornamental plants. They grow herbaceous and grow between 0.5-3 m tall. They can be annual, biennial or perennial. Due to their similar appearance, there is often confusion between the coneflowers (Echinacea) and the rudbeckias (Rudbeckia). The original rudbeckias had yellow flowers, but now there are flowers in other colors.

Growing tips

Divide every 4-5 years in spring. Taller species are best supported by a shrub ring. Only cut back in spring. Should not be left too dry as they will then easily topple over. Also good with red yarrow, sunflower, grasses or torch lilies. Propagate in spring by seed, division or cuttings. Most species are hardy. Insect and bird-friendly. Perennial plants can be planted out earlier than annuals. Do not plant out in frosty or very wet conditions. Fertilize once a year in spring.