Orange coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida)

Orange coneflower

Features and Characteristics

Rudbeckia fulgida is a herbaceous perennial native to the eastern United States which occurs in both dry and moist soils in open woods, glades and thickets. An upright, rhizomatous, clump-forming, free-blooming coneflower which typically grows to 3′ tall, often forming colonies in the wild. Features daisy-like flowers (to 5″ across) with yellow rays and brownish-purple center disks. Prolific bloom production over a long mid-summer to fall bloom period. Oblong to lanceolate, medium green foliage. Good cut flower. The flowers are attractive to butterflies and other insect pollinators. Birds eat the seeds.

Genus name honors Olof Rudbeck (1630-170- Swedish botanist and founder of the Uppsala Botanic Garden in Sweden where Carl Linnaeus was professor of botany.

The specific epithet fulgida means “shining” or “glistening”.

The species is infrequently sold by nurseries because of the excellent varieties and cultivars available thereunder (e.g., see ‘Goldsturm’ and ‘Viette’s Little Suzy’).

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in dry to medium, organically rich to average, well-drained soils in full sun. Best bloom occurs in full sun, although plants will tolerate some light shade. Plants prefer consistent moisture throughout the growing season, with some tolerance for drought once established. Tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions including dry soil, clay soil, and urban environments. Good air circulation is appreciated. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional bloom. Plants slowly spread in the garden by rhizomes.

Orange coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida) Requirements

Hardiness zone	3 - 9
Sun light	Full sun
Water	Dry to medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Deer tend to avoid this plant.

Uses

Mass in bold drifts in the perennial border, cottage garden, meadow, native plant garden or naturalized area. Provides excellent bloom and color for the late summer. Good cut flower.

Orange coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida) Details

Common name	Orange coneflower
Botanical name	Rudbeckia fulgida
Plant type	Herbaceous perennial
Family	Asteraceae
Hardiness zone	3 - 9
Water	Dry to medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Orange / yellow
Flowering period	July - Oc- ber
Height	2 - 3 ft.
Width	2 - 2.50 feet