Rudbeckia hirta 'Sonora' is a compact short-lived perennial, usually grown as an annual, boasting very large, golden flowers, 5-6 in. across (12-15 cm), adorned with a large mahogany ring 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 above the foliage clump of fresh green leaves. 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.

• Grows in upright clumps up to 18-24 in. tall and wide (45-60 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.