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Herbaceous PerennialAnnual Biennial

Rudbeckia hirta Sahara (mixed) (d)

black-eyed Susan [Sahara]

A mix of biennial or short-lived perennials usually grown as annuals, to around 60cm high, with oval-shaped, bristly green leaves. Double and semi-double flowers, in soft shades of yellow, burnt orange, peach and dark pink, are borne on leafy, upright stems from late summer into autumn

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Yellow Orange Pink Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Rudbeckia may be annuals, biennials or rhizomatous herbaceous perennials, with simple or pinnately divided leaves and large daisy-like flower-heads with yellow or orange rays surrounding a prominent conical disk

Name status

Trade

How to grow

Cultivation

Best grown as a half-hardy annual. Grows well in moderately fertile, preferably heavy but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. See rudbeckia cultivation for more detailed advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown with gentle heat in spring. Light is needed for germination. Harden off before planting out

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Deadhead to remove spent flowers

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids, to leaf and bud eelworms, and to slugs on young growth

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews, especially on dry soils

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