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RudbeckiaRudbeckia hirtaLacy Bird Encyclopedia
focal · easy · budget

Rudbeckia

Rudbeckia hirta · aka black-eyed Susan, coneflower, gloriosa daisy

Rudbeckia is the golden daisy of high summer and early autumn, instantly recognisable by its warm yellow-to-bronze rays circling a dark, domed cone. Florists prize it as a cheerful, sturdy focal that carries meadow and prairie-style designs without fuss. Its colour range spans clear yellow through mahogany and rust, making it a natural fit for late-season and rustic palettes. Reliable, inexpensive and long-lasting, it bridges the gap between sunflowers and the finer autumn daisies.

At a glance
FamilyAsteraceae
OriginNorth America (eastern and central United States)
Peak seasonJuly, August, September
AvailabilityJune, July, August, September, October
Stem length40–70 cm
Vase life6–10 days
Colorsyellow, orange, bronze, brown, red
Price tierbudget
Conditioning

Cut stems on a sharp angle and place immediately into clean, cool water with flower food. Strip all foliage that would sit below the waterline, as rudbeckia leaves foul water quickly. Give the stems a deep drink in a cool room for a few hours before arranging, and refresh the water every two days to extend the display.

Care in the vase
  • Remove all submerged foliage before arranging
  • Use clean vases and flower food
  • Change water every two days
  • Keep away from ripening fruit and heat
  • Recut stems when refreshing water
Design role & symbolism
Symbolismencouragement, warmth, justice, motivation
Occasionseveryday, autumn wedding, summer wedding, rustic arrangements, garden-style, seasonal
focalsummerautumngarden-stylerusticyellowlong-lastingseasonal

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