Rudbeckia maxima

Native to south-central USA in states such as Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas, with a few records from South Carolina and North Carolina. A striking native perennial known for its towering flower stalks topped with 3 inch long golden-yellow petals that droop from a tall, dark central cone. Often reaching heights of 7 feet, it makes a great accent plant in a pollinator garden. Its large, powdery blue-green basal leaves, resembling cabbage, make it unique and add visual interest even when not in bloom. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while its seeds provide food for birds, such as goldfinches, in the autumn. With its bold height and foliage, this wildflower makes a dramatic focal point. Makes a great cut flower and will readily self-seed so it can be a great addition to a meadow, naturalized area or used in mass plantings. Tolerates light shade, heat, some drought, nighttime visits from deer, and a wide range of soils. Food source for the larvae of the Wavy-lined Emerald (Synchlora aerata) butterfly.