Prarie Sun Rudbeckia
January 4, 2010
Rudbeckia hirta flowers are also known as Gloriosa daisies, or Black-Eyed Susans. This specific variety, Prarie Sun, is an annual where I live, but a biennial in warmer zones. I start mine from seed, but have seen them offered as starts in nurseries in recent years. Letting them reseed in the garden is an option also, but note that if you have more than one type of Rudbeckia hirta planted, the seedlings can be a cross. Easy to grow and low maintenance, the presence of this flower in any bouquet spreads cheer and happiness.
The green center is quite different from other Rudbeckias, and lends it to be a bit more versatile for various styles of arrangements. The size of the flower varies, but are typically 4 – 6 inches across.
Growing information:
Height – 2 1/2 to 3 feet
Light requirements: grow in full sun
Bloom time – mid summer through fall
Hardiness – biennial in zones 5 – 8
33 Barefoot Lane 
January 10, 2010 at 8:57 pm
The photos of your flowers are beautiful. I learn so much from your blog and am thankful that you share your knowledge! Can I ask where you order most of your seeds from?
January 10, 2010 at 11:34 pm
Carrie,
Thank you for the kind words of encouragement. I’m always glad to hear from fellow gardeners!
I order my seeds from:
Park Seed
Jung Seed
Burpee Seed
Johnny’s Select Seeds
Territorial Seeds
Thompson & Morgan
Pinetree garden seeds
Cook’s Garden
January 5, 2010 at 2:54 pm
How lovely – and just what is needed on a brutally cold morning! A reminder that it will warm again….someday!
January 5, 2010 at 5:39 pm
You are right Teresa, anything that looks like summer is so welcome right now! Keep warm!