Quick Guide: summer/autumn, half hardy, full sun, height: 30cm-60cm/12-24in, width: 45cm/18in
Rudbeckia hirta, the original Black-eyed Susan, is treated as an annual, though strictly it is a perennial like its relatives R. laciniata (the coneflower) and R. nitida. Its bright yellow or orange flowers with contrasting dark centres are eye-catching candidates for the border and make good cut flowers.
PROPAGATION Sow seed in early spring in trays in a cold frame orgreenhouse. Prick out the seedlings when large enough to handle and plant into the flowering site.
GROWING Annual rudbeckias like a dry, free-draining soil, unlike the perennials which prefer heavy, moisture-retentive loam. They tolerate dappled shade but prefer a sunny position. In the open, support the plants with stakes.
VARIETIES `Marmalade' hears orange flowers up to 7.5 cm/ 3in across; `Rustic Dwarfs' are of equal size in shades of orange and bronze.
POSSIBLE PROBLEMS Generally trouble-free.
