Rudbeckia hirta Marmalade Seeds - Black-eyed Susan

From June until the first frost, organic Rudbeckia hirta 'Marmalade' is covered with numerous large semi-double orange-yellow heads surrounding a black centre. This perennial plant is usually grown as an annual. It forms a tall clump, 60 cm in height and about 40 cm wide that will fit well in a flower bed or a container. It is also an excellent cut flower for creating rustic bouquets. Easy to sow and cultivate in all types of soil in full sun or partial shade. Sow from February to April in a seed tray.

From the Asteraceae family, Rudbeckia hirta is a perennial plant native to the meadows of North America. Due to its short lifespan, it is more often grown as an annual or biennial plant. It does not live more than 2 to 3 years but naturally self-seeds quite easily. This Rudbeckia forms a clump of green basal leaves that are 5 to 10 cm long and slightly hairy. From the clump, sturdy and branched floral stems emerge, bearing narrower cauline leaves. These stems bear large "daisies" of about 8 to 10 cm in diameter. The ray florets are orange-yellow, surrounding a prominent cone that is dark brown, almost black, creating an interesting contrast. The 'Marmalade' cultivar is appreciated for its generosity: its bright flowers succeed from June until the first frost, making it possible to create lovely bouquets all summer long. Its flowers are nectar-rich. Plant a few in the vegetable garden to attract pollinating insects and butterflies. Leave the last dried flowers of autumn on the plant, as birds feed on the mature seeds contained in their centres.

Rudbeckia 'Marmalade' will brighten up any flower bed or border. It can also be planted in a large container. Pair it with other cut flowers to have on hand for creating charming bouquets. Consider Achillea millefolium Summerwine with its bright red flowers and Zinnia Pop Art Golden and Red with its yellow flowers speckled with red. Add a grass to your composition to lighten it up, try Stipa tenuissima Pony Tails, which is decorative with its golden summer flowering