Black Eyed Susan ‘Amarillo Gold’

Rudbeckia hirta ‘Amarillo Gold’

Characteristics

Culture

Black Eyed Susan ‘Amarillo Gold’ is a biennial or short-lived perennial that is winter hardy to USDA Zones 4-9. It blooms in the first year from seed planted in early spring, and is accordingly often grown as an annual. It is easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Best in moist, organically rich soils. Black Eyed Susan ‘Amarillo Gold’ tolerates heat, drought and a wide range of soils except poorly-drained wet ones. Deadhead spend flowers to encourage additional bloom and/or to prevent any unwanted self-seeding. Whether or not plants survive from one year to the next, they freely self-seed and will usually remain in the garden through self-seeding.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Black Eyed Susan ‘Amarillo Gold’ (rudbeckia) has been named a Flower Winner in 2020 by All-America Selections (AAS), a plant-trialing program that tests plants in gardens across the USA. This annual daisy-type flower boasts deep yellow rays around greenish central discs. Its vivid color, compact habit and sturdy stems set it apart in the eyes of the AAS judges. This variety was also awarded a Gold Medal in 2020 from Fleuroselect, an international organization of plant breeders, growers and sellers. Fleuroselect noted the comparatively large size of its flowers and its short, sturdy stems.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Susceptible to powdery mildew. Watch for slugs and snails on young plants. Can self-seed freely. Deer tend to avoid this plant.

Garden Uses

Borders. Annual beds. Cottage gardens. Wild gardens. Meadows. Groups or mass plantings. Good cut flower.