Rudbeckia Rodeo™ Double Red Black-Eyed Susan

Rudbeckia Rodeo™ Double Red is a short-lived perennial, typically grown as an annual, that flowers from late spring to first frost. Long- and heavy-blooming, this large-flowered cultivar sets unique, deep red fully double flowers with a dark cone. Borne singly on sturdy stems, the blooms make excellent long-lasting cut flowers for summer bouquets and mixed flower arrangements. The flowers are nectar rich and attract bees and butterflies to the garden for months on end, and the seed heads that follow offer winter interest as well as sustenance for songbirds, such as American goldfinches.

A Rudbeckia hirta, commonly called black-eyed Susan and sometimes called gloriosa daisy, Rodeo Double Red has an upright habit, growing up to 24 inches tall and wide. Shown to best effect when mass planted, black-eyed Susan is a classic bed and border plant but also works well in decorative patio pots.

Double Red black-eyed Susan is easy to grow and maintain. It grows best in a sunny spot with organically rich, moist, well-draining soil. It adapts to a wide range of soils, even clay. Relatively trouble free, it forgives neglect, tolerates heat, and resists deer. Deadheading spent flowers promotes re-bloom.

A native plant, black-eyed Susan is indigenous to eastern North America. Native plants are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly. Naturally adapted to the climate and soil conditions of the region, they thrive without fertilizers or extra watering, once established. They also act as natural pest controls, reducing the need for pesticides in the garden. Landscaping with native plants promotes biodiversity and provides shelter and quality food for wildlife and pollinators, bringing gardens to life.