3″ flowers on 2′ plants. Colors range from yellow and orange to brown and mahogany as well as mixes. They make a very dramatic backdrop in burnished, autumnal tones. No two are alike. They are very useful for cut-flowers as well.

20seeds

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: 24-30″ 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.