Plant of the month – Rudbeckia

Rudbeckia (also known as the cone flower)

There are perennial and annual types – both are valuable for giving you colour in late Summer and Autumn

The colour range is limited to yellow, orange and mahogany red but the flowers are large and plentiful and really stand out this time of year. They are identified by the cone shaped disc at the centre usually but not always dark brown or near black .

They thrive in most soils and do well in full sun or partial shade. They may wilt during prolonged dry periods in summer. They will not flower well in shade.

Propagation of the perennial types is done by dividing large clumps in Autumn or Spring.

Many rudbeckias look attractive through winter. The stems and distinctive rounded seedheads persist well, providing food for birds and shelter for wildlife.