Black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm'
ABOUT
Commonly known as Black-eyed Susan, 'Goldsturm' is a flowering perennial that boasts vibrant, daisy-like flowers. The blooms of this plant are characterized by their bold golden-yellow petals, which radiate from a prominent, dark brown to black central cone. This striking central disc gives the resemblance of an 'eye,' lending the plant its common name. The flowers are arranged singularly atop sturdy, upright stems, and each petal is slightly reflexed, adding to the radiance of the flower's display. The leaves of 'Goldsturm' are deep green and have a slightly hairy texture. They are generally oblong with a strong, toothed edge, and they create a lush backdrop for the bright blossoms. This plant is a favorite for its long-lasting mid-summer to fall bloom time and its suitability as a cut flower, maintaining its attractive appearance both in the garden and in arrangements.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Black-Eyed Susan, Orange Coneflower, Goldsturm Coneflower.
Common names
Rudbeckia sullivantii 'Goldsturm', Rudbeckia sullivantii C.L. Boynton & Beadle
ToxicityTo humans
Black-eyed Susan, the common name for Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm', is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant typically does not result in serious poisoning or severe symptoms. However, as with many plants, individual sensitivities can vary, and some people might experience mild discomfort or an allergic reaction if they have particular sensitivities. It is always advised to avoid eating ornamental plants as a precaution.
To pets
Black-eyed Susan is also generally considered to be non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Similar to humans, ingestion of this plant usually does not cause serious harm or significant poisoning to pets. Nevertheless, individual animals may have different reactions, and some may experience gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, if they consume parts of the plant. Monitoring your pet for any signs of distress after ingestion and consulting with a veterinarian if symptoms appear is always the safest approach.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
1.5 feet (0.46 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Black-eyed Susan features vibrant, yellow-gold petals around a dark brown center, adding a bold splash of color to garden landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: It is popular among bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, which play a vital role in the ecosystem by facilitating plant reproduction.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens in drier climates.
- Low Maintenance: It is easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep, which is ideal for gardeners seeking low-effort plants.
- Disease and Pest Resistant: The plant has a natural resistance to many common pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Extended Blooming Season: It flowers from late summer to fall, providing long-lasting color when many other plants have finished blooming.
- Naturalizing: It can spread and naturalize in an area, filling out landscapes and reducing the need for additional plantings.
- Erosion Control: Its extensive root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially beneficial on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Wildlife Habitat: It provides shelter and food for wildlife, such as birds who feed on its seeds in the fall and winter.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for borders, mass plantings, and as cut flowers due to its sturdy stems and long vase life.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rudbeckia Goldsturm's dried flower heads can be used in floral arrangements for a rustic touch to your décor.
- The stems of the Goldsturm can be woven into sturdy garden baskets due to their robustness upon drying.
- Goldsturm's nectar and pollen-rich blooms are great for attracting and supporting beneficial insect populations in permaculture gardens.
- The vivid yellow petals of the Goldsturm can be used as a natural dye for textiles, imparting a warm yellow or greenish tint.
- Large stands of Goldsturm can reduce soil erosion due to their network of roots, making them useful for stabilizing slopes and banks.
- The plant's seed heads can serve as natural bird feeders, especially in winter, providing food for finches and other seed-eating birds.
- Goldsturm plants can be used in educational settings as a tool for teaching about plant biology and the importance of native species in ecosystems.
- Goldsturm is ideal for creating a natural, low-maintenance garden boundary that can also double as a wildlife habitat.
- The visual impact of mass plantings of Goldsturm can be used for artistic land art projects that change throughout the seasons.
- Leaves of the Goldsturm can be used as a mild garden mulch, gradually decomposing and enriching the soil with organic matter.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiBlack-eyed Susan is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityBlack-eyed Susan is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Happiness: Black-eyed Susan, the common name for Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm', often symbolizes happiness due to its bright, sunny appearance that can lighten up any garden space.
- Optimism: The vibrant yellow petals radiate an energy that is often associated with positivity and an optimistic outlook on life.
- Justice: In floral language, the Black-eyed Susan can sometimes represent justice, perhaps due to its steady gaze that, like the eye of justice, suggests everything is seen.
WaterBlack-eyed Susans should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, providing approximately 1 inch of water per week. They require deep, infrequent watering to help establish strong roots; aim to water them deeply once a week rather than a little every day. During extremely hot weather, you may need to increase watering slightly, but always check the top couple inches of soil for dryness before adding water. Be careful not to overwater, as Black-eyed Susans are drought-tolerant once established and excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Adjust watering routines according to rainfall, reducing the amount you water if there has been significant rain.
LightBlack-eyed Susans thrive best in full sun, which means they need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. They can tolerate light shade, but flowering may be reduced in less than optimal light conditions. The best spot for these plants is a location where they receive unfiltered, direct sunlight for the majority of the day to encourage healthy growth and abundant blooms.
TemperatureBlack-eyed Susans are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they grow best when daytime temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit but will die back to the ground in winter and return in spring. Ideally, maintain consistent temperatures during the growing season to ensure vigorous growth and flowering.
PruningPrune Black-eyed Susans to remove spent flowers, commonly known as deadheading, which encourages more blooms and extends the flowering period. Additionally, cut back plants in late fall or early spring to promote healthy growth and maintain an attractive shape. Pruning is best done after the first killing frost in the fall or in early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBlack-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm') thrives best in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, to encourage healthy growth. A balanced soil mix with equal parts garden soil, compost, and coarse sand or perlite is ideal. The preferred pH level for Black-eyed Susan is between 5.8 and 6.8.
RepottingBlack-eyed Susan typically does not require frequent repotting as it is generally grown as a perennial outdoor plant. In a garden setting, it is best to divide the plants every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and to control their spread rather than to repot them.
Humidity & MistingBlack-eyed Susan is quite tolerant of humidity variations and does not have specific humidity requirements. It can thrive in the average outdoor humidity levels found in its growing zones.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, and space out for air circulation.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleRudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm', commonly known as Black-eyed Susan, starts its life as a seed, which upon germination and with appropriate conditions, develops into a small rosette of leaves in its early growth stage. As the root system establishes, the plant enters a vegetative state where it grows rapidly, producing a clump of rich green foliage. During the flowering stage, typically from mid-summer to early fall, the plant produces bright yellow daisy-like flowers with a distinct dark brown central cone. After pollination, which is often aided by bees and butterflies, the flowers produce seeds that mature as the flowering ends and the plant enters senescence in late fall. The plant may die back to the ground in colder climates during winter, remaining dormant before resurfacing in spring. In milder climates or with adequate mulch for protection, it may retain some foliage year-round as a perennial.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to early fall
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm') is by division. This is ideally done in early spring, once the threat of frost has passed, or in the fall, as the plants begin to die back. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump of Black-eyed Susans, ensuring to get as much of the root system as possible. Using a sharp knife or spade, divide the clump into smaller sections, making sure each section has both roots and shoots. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were growing previously and water them thoroughly to help establish the roots. Divisions should be spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth. This method enhances the vitality of the mother plant and provides an efficient way to increase your stock of these vibrant, daisy-like perennials.
