Black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia fulgida 'Little Goldstar' (PBR)

Water

Black-eyed Susan 'Little Goldstar' prefers consistent moisture but is also drought tolerant once established. During the growing season, water the plant with about 1 inch of water per week, depending on weather conditions. If there's been rain, you can skip watering; otherwise, a deep soak is preferable to frequent light waterings to encourage deep root growth. In periods of extreme heat or drought, increasing watering frequency may be necessary. Always water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease.

Light

Black-eyed Susan 'Little Goldstar' thrives best in full sun, meaning it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. It can tolerate partial shade, but too little light may lead to fewer flowers and a less robust plant. Planting it in a spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade can help protect it from the intense heat of late day sun, especially in hotter climates.

Temperature

Black-eyed Susan 'Little Goldstar' is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, from about -30°F to 90°F, making it suitable for USDA zones 4 through 9. The ideal temperature for this perennial is between 60°F and 75°F. It is relatively tolerant of heat, but in very hot weather, the plant may require additional watering to stay healthy.

Pruning

Pruning Black-eyed Susan 'Little Goldstar' encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly during the blooming season to promote continuous flowering. In late fall or early spring, cut back the entire plant to a few inches above the ground to encourage new growth. Pruning is usually done annually, but if the plant looks untidy, you can lightly prune as needed throughout the year.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Black-eyed Susan 'Little Goldstar' thrives best in a soil mixture that is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and has a soil pH between 5.8 and 7.0. A combination of loamy garden soil, compost, and coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage makes an ideal mix for this hardy perennial.

Repotting

Black-eyed Susan 'Little Goldstar' typically doesn't require frequent repotting. It can be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil or when the plant has outgrown its current container.

Humidity & Misting

Black-eyed Susan 'Little Goldstar' isn't particularly humidity-sensitive and can thrive in average ambient humidity levels found outdoors. No special humidity adjustments are required for this plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light and well-draining soil for Black-eyed Susan.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun to partial shade and moist soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Black-eyed Susan 'Little Goldstar' begins its life as a seed, usually planted in early spring, germinating in soil with adequate warmth and moisture. Upon sprouting, it enters a vegetative stage, where it focuses on leaf growth to harness sunlight for photosynthesis, developing a rosette of dark green foliage. As the plant matures, it shifts to the reproductive stage, usually in late spring or early summer, producing distinctive yellow flowers with a dark brown central cone. After pollination, often by bees, the flowers produce seeds in the late summer to early fall, which can be dispersed by wind or animals, or collected for cultivation. During the winter, the plant may die back, entering a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates, but the root system can survive to regenerate the next spring. In ideal conditions, Black-eyed Susan 'Little Goldstar' can live and thrive for several years, commonly behaving as a short-lived perennial with a self-seeding habit that can ensure its presence in the garden year after year.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late summer

• The Black-Eyed Susan 'Little Goldstar' is commonly propagated through division, which is often performed in the spring or autumn. This method involves carefully lifting the plant from the ground and gently separating it into smaller clumps, each with a share of roots and shoots. The divisions should then be immediately replanted in well-prepared soil, ensuring they are spaced adequately to accommodate future growth. This ensures the plant continues to thrive and produces the characteristic bright yellow flowers with dark brown centers that are so admired in gardens.