We don’t know about you, but at The Garden Design and Care Centre we think as the days start to draw in there’s no better feeling than gazing out into the garden to see a swath of mellow gold bobbing heads brightening up our borders.
Rudbeckia, commonly known as ‘coneflower’ are a plant subspecies of the sunflower family. They vary greatly not only in height and leaf shape, but also range from annuals to perennials.
Discover some interesting facts about our favourite variety; the inspiration for our logo, rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii ‘Goldsturm’.
Location & Position:
Rudbeckia are a perfect low-maintenance addition to any garden. These deciduous delights will flourish in most environments from most sheltered spots to the exposed sites, partial shade or full sun, so long as they are in moist, but well-drained soil.
Plant them in May/June and not only will these little gems bring a splash of colour to your garden from August through to October, or later if we don’t get early frosts, they are also short enough (approx. 60cm in height) to not need staking, even when the weather starts to turn inclement.
Should your beds get congested you can divide overcrowded clumps from autumn through to spring. This will not only keep them looking their best, but give you a chance to start a whole new colony.
Environmental Essentials :
Unlike many of our favourite garden additions rudbeckias are not known to be toxic to dogs, cats or livestock, but, with their enticing nectar rich flowers and open-faces, they are a great means of survival for bees and other pollinators as the summer draws to an end. The seed heads are also a favourite of goldfinches.
And another thing:
Rudbeckias are a fantastic addition to any garden, they are particularly well suited to naturalising meadows, perennial borders and cottage gardens. These charming yellow blooms were named in honour of botanist Olof Rudbeck Junior. Since 1918 it has been the state flower of Maryland, USA.
