Rudbeckia hirta ‘Denver Daisy’ (Black-Eyed Susan)

Rudbeckia hirta ‘Denver Daisy’ is a compact, biennial or short-lived perennial, usually grown as an annual, boasting large, golden flowers, 3-4 in. across (7-10 cm), adorned with rich mahogany and a dark chocolate cone. Blooming profusely from early summer to frost, it provides weeks of eye-catching color and makes a guaranteed garden attraction. The delightful blossoms rise atop sturdy, upright stems that do not flop, even under adverse weather conditions. Heat tolerant, it is a great addition to borders or containers and makes excellent cut flowers. Its seed heads have good winter interest unless they are used in dried arrangements. Bred by Ernst Benary Seeds to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the city of Denver.

• Recipient of the Grand Prize winner of the 2010 American Garden Award.
• Grows in upright clumps up to 18-24 in. tall (45-60 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm). May survive up to a few seasons but will self-seed and remain in the garden.
• Thrives in full sun in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Drought tolerant once established.
• Ridiculously easy to grow and largely trouble-free, this rudbeckia is a great candidate for mixed borders, cutting gardens, or as an accent plant when planted in mass.
• Deer-resistant, the flowers are attractive to pollinating insects, butterflies, and birds.
• Remove and discard spent flowers to encourage extended blooming and prevent unwanted seedlings next season.
• Easily propagated by seed.
• Rudbeckia hirta is native to Eastern and Central North America.