Rudbeckia fulgida ‘fulgida’

This natural variety of Black-Eyed Susan is found in meadows and on roadsides in the eastern United States from New York to the Florida panhandle and west to Illinois and Mississippi. It is a lovely wildflower, hugely useful in the garden. The plant is 2-3′ high x 1.5 – 2′ wide (a little taller than R. fulgida ‘Goldsturm’), with glossy, clean foliage. ‘Fulgida’ blooms vigorously from late June into October (is longer blooming than ‘Goldsturm’) with 2-inch flower heads (smaller than ‘Goldsturm’) consisting of golden ray flowers with chocolate brown centers. It is an easy-to-grow perennial in average to dry soil, in full sun to partial shade. It is heat- and humidity-tolerant, as well as tolerant of urban conditions, and resistant to many pests. It is a vigorous grower, spreading by seeds and runners. A super-satisfactory color accent or mass planting in a meadow as it is a good cut flower, attracts all kinds of pollinators, and Goldfinches, juncos and other birds feed on the seed heads. It is easily divided in late fall or spring when it becomes full, to maintain good air circulation within the clumps.