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Rudbeckia maxima (Giant coneflower, Black-eyed Susan)

Rudbeckia maxima Photo/Illustration: Amy Fahmy



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name:Rudbeckia maxima rud-BEK-ee-ah MAKS-ih-mah Common Name: Giant coneflower, Black-eyed Susan Genus: Rudbeckia
This choice species makes a strong vertical statement with its large, smooth, sea-green leaves and towering stems to 6 feet tall. It bears short, yellow ray florets with giant, upright cones at the center. It prefers average soil with good drainage, and is excellent in native or wild plantings.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Rudbeckias hail from the moist meadows and dappled woods of North America. They are suitable for mixed borders, meadows, native gardens, open woods, and large annual displays. 
 Care: Grow in average, slightly heavy but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade.
 Propagation: Sow seed in a cold frame in early spring, or divide plants in spring or fall.
 Problems: Aphids, powdery mildew, smut, rust, Ramularia and Septoria leaf spots, snails, slugs.
Height 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Low
Characteristics Attracts Birds; Attracts Butterflies; Native; Self Seeds; Showy Flowers; Showy Foliage; Showy Seed Heads
Bloom Time Fall; Summer
Flower Color Brown Flower; Yellow Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Naturalizing, Roadside
Style Cottage Garden, Meadow Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Perennials

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