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Plant Profiles / Black-eyed Susan
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm' · Goldsturm rudbeckia, orange coneflower
A cheerful, tough perennial with golden-yellow daisies and dark centres that flower from midsummer into autumn. Bees, butterflies and birds love it.
Full sunLight
WeeklyWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
At least 6 hours of sun; tolerates light shade.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Water regularly in the first season; drought tolerant afterwards.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
Hardy, -35–35°C (-31–95°F)
CoolWarm
Very cold and heat tolerant.
Growth
Moderate, spreading clump
SlowFast
Grows 60–75 cm tall and spreads slowly.
Soil
Average, well-drained
LeanRich
Tolerates clay and poor soils.
Fertiliser
Rarely
RarelyOften
Little fertiliser needed.
Pet safety
Mildly toxic
SafeToxic
May cause mild stomach upset in pets if eaten.
About this plant
'Goldsturm' is a German selection of a North American wildflower and one of the most popular perennials in the world. It forms a spreading clump and is extremely reliable, flowering for months in sunny spots.
Best spots
Sunny balconies, borders, pollinator gardens and meadow-style plantings.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm' |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Origin | Eastern USA |
| Plant type | Herbaceous perennial |
| Mature size | 60–75 cm tall |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Rough, dark green leaves |
| Flowers | Golden daisies with black centres |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Division or seed |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Flowering
Cut back
Divide
Active growthFloweringCut backDivide
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Black spots on leaves | Fungal leaf spot. Remove affected leaves and improve airflow. |
| White powder | Powdery mildew. |
| Floppy stems | Too much shade or rich soil. |
| Clump too big | Divide every 3–4 years. |
| Few flowers | Too much shade. |
Common questions
Should I deadhead?
Deadhead to extend flowering, or leave seedheads for birds.
Does it spread?
Slowly by rhizomes and self-seeding.
Can I grow it in a pot?
Yes, in a sunny spot with good drainage.
Is it good for cut flowers?
Yes, the flowers last well in a vase.
