Black-Eyed Susan Dakota™ 'Red Shield' 2 Gallon

Rudbeckia hirta

Vigorous, productive, and reliable, Black-eyed Susans, also known as Rudbeckia, are easily identified by their golden-yellow petals that typically surround a deep black eye. They are long bloomers, great butterfly attractants, good cut flowers, and they provide winter interest. 'Flame' is a member of the cold hardy, true perennial, Dakota™ series that can bloom early summer and continues into the fall with 5-7 inch wide, single, golden-yellow petals with a russet red ring around its dark centers over fuzzy, medium green, compact foliage. Use in sunny borders, cutting and cottage gardens, and containers with meadow sage, Nepeta, Sedum, and ornamental grasses. Plant in well-drained, nutrient rich to poor soil amended with compost or planting mix. Water well after planting; maintain 1" of water, once a week the first year. Apply a slow release fertilizer in spring and again midsummer. Cut stems or deadhead to promote reblooming. Mulch 1-2 inches to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. Divide in spring when necessary. Plants may self-seed.

• Full Sun
• 15-18" h x 18-24" w
• Deer Resistant
• Attracts Pollinators