A 1995 AAS winner which is compact, multi-branching, and a prolific producer of huge, colorful blooms. These are the largest, most astonishing Black-eyed Susans you’ll ever see. Grow them as an annual, starting them indoors in April, transplanting when the soil is warm, and there will be 26″-30″ plants with 5″-8″ flowers from mid-August through the first few frosts. Golden yellow blossoms with chocolate-brown centers make for excellent cut flowers (with a long vase life) and are a beautiful sight in a garden.

50 seeds

PLANTING

Rudbeckia hirta

Perennial, Zones 5-9

Germination:7-12 days

Germination Temperature:Optimum soil temperatures 70-75F

Seed Planting Depth:Sow on the surface and press into soil, seeds need light to germinate.

Starting Indoors:Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75F soil temperature. Transplant after the last frost, 12-18″ apart.

Sowing Outdoors:Direct sow 1-2 weeks before the last frost date,sow 3-5 seeds every 12-18″apart.

Growth Habit:Upright

Height and Width:26-30″ by 12-18″

Spacing:12-18″ apart

Light Needs:Full sun

Soil Needs:Loose, rich, well-drained

Approximate days to flower from seed:Blooms in the second year may bloom the first season when started early indoors.

Uses:Flower beds, containers, cut flowers,attracts pollinators

Care:Water seedlings regularly until establishedand water well during dry spells.Amend soil with compost before transplanting.Harvest flowers often for bouquets or deadhead for continuous blooms.