Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' Black-Eyed Susan
Best vibrant blooms for low maintenance garden enthusiasts.
Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm', commonly known as Black-Eyed Susan, is a free-flowering perennial that produces golden daisies with black centers up to 4 inches across. It blooms prolifically from mid-summer to early fall, making it a landscape staple. This variety spreads slowly by rhizomes and was recognized as the Perennial Plant Association's "1999 Plant of the Year." It thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soil but tolerates drier conditions once established and is adaptable to various soil types, making it a good choice for rain gardens.
$13.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
864
/ 3269
#864 in Landscaping & Garden Plants
Price vs Category Average
-50%
Below average
Common Names
Black-Eyed Susan
/ Black-Eyed Susan
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking extended seasonal color and visual impact
- Busy individuals desiring beautiful gardens without constant upkeep
- Nature lovers wanting to support local ecosystems
Who should skip it
- Gardeners with limited space or those preferring contained growth
- Individuals with predominantly shady garden areas
- Gardeners who prefer a truly hands-off approach
Performance breakdown
Bloom Longevity
Prolific flowering window keeps the garden vibrant from mid-summer through fall.
Environmental Adaptability
Thrives in diverse soil conditions including challenging clay and drought scenarios.
Pollinator Attraction
Reliably draws butterflies and hummingbirds to your landscape throughout the season.
Maintenance Ease
A low-effort perennial that establishes quickly with minimal ongoing care required.
Landscape Versatility
Perfect for rain gardens, borders, or as a reliable cut flower.
Hardiness Range
Robust performance across zones four through nine ensures wide regional viability.
Key Specs
Common Names
Black-Eyed Susan
Zones
4-9
Light Requirements
Full Sun to Light Shade
Soil Preference
Prefers moist, well-drained soil
Height at Maturity
24-36 inches
Width at Maturity
34 inches
Bloom Color
Yellow
Bloom Time
Middle summer to early fall
Features
- Long blooming period from mid-summer to early fall
- Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds
- Tolerant of clay soil and drought once established
- Suitable for rain gardens
- Native to North America
- Good cut flower
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the exceptional quality and reliability of these Black Eyed Susans. Many gardeners report receiving robust, healthy plants that establish quickly and thrive, producing an abundance of vibrant, long lasting blooms. The ease of cultivation and consistent performance across various garden conditions are frequently highlighted, making them a dependable choice for adding cheerful color. Their ability to attract pollinators is also a noted benefit, enhancing garden ecosystems. This plant offers excellent value, delivering a spectacular display year after year with minimal fuss.
Know before you buy
Since 'Goldsturm' reaches a mature width of about 34 inches, you should space them roughly 2 to 3 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.
Yes, this variety is notably tolerant of clay soil. While it prefers moist, well-drained conditions, it is adaptable enough to thrive in heavier soils once established.
It prefers consistent moisture, especially during its first season. Once the root system is fully established, it becomes quite drought-tolerant and can handle drier spells.
Absolutely. The sturdy stems and long-lasting golden blooms make them excellent cut flowers for bouquets.
You can leave the seed heads standing through the winter to provide food for birds and visual interest in the garden, then cut the foliage back to the ground in early spring before new growth appears.
No, 'Goldsturm' spreads slowly by rhizomes. It is considered a well-behaved perennial that will gradually fill in its space without becoming invasive.
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