Rudbeckia

Rudbeckia (also known as Black-eyed Susan) is a bright, cheerful flowering plant. Known for its golden-yellow petals and dark centres. They add colour to any garden from mid-summer right through into autumn. They are easy to grow, attract pollinators, and work well in borders, cottage gardens, and wildlife-friendly planting schemes.

Rudbeckia seeds are typically sown indoors from February to April or directly outdoors from April to May, with plants transplanted outside after the last frost in May or June. Rudbeckia grows best in full sun (6–8 hours daily) and prefers moist, well-drained soil, making it a great addition to borders and wildlife-friendly gardens.

Flowering from July to October, rudbeckia provides long-lasting colour and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Plants should be spaced 30–50 cm apart and watered regularly while establishing, although they become moderately drought tolerant once mature. Depending on the variety, rudbeckia may be hardy perennial or grown as an annual, with perennials dying back in winter and returning each spring.