Rudbeckia Seeds, Plants, Species and Cultivars

Rudbeckia are also known as 'Black eyed Susans' 'Brown eyed susans' and cone flowers depending on variety. R. fulgida is a yellow flowering daisy like flower with stunning black centre. Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii ( Rudbeckia Goldsturm) is a popular cultivar these two are known as the 'black eyed susans' available for sale by mail order.

Rudbeckia triloba is a taller growing species (up to 2m) with different coloration to 'goldstrum' the eye is noticeably brown hence the name' Browneyed Susan' also know as the thin leaved cone flower as its foliage is finer.

ANd the name 'coneflowers', yes they are closely related to echinacea purpurea or the purple cone flower. Similar growing conditions, lots of mulch and full sun.

Rudbeckia californica is known as the Californian coneflower while the fascinating Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Green Wizard' with its green sepals and large deep red centre that will reach around 1.5m is a most unusual plant. 'Black Beauty' which has also has green sepals (no petals) are also worth looking for.

Rudbekia can be grown from seeds, sow seeds in late winter in trays in a greenhouse, or indoors, they will take a month or so to reach a stage where they can be planted out. Buy named cultivars in late winter for planting out in spring, most species flower in late summer.