Coneflower Rudbeckia Summerina Butterscotch Biscuit = 'Et Rdb 410' (PBR) (Summerina Series)
ABOUT
[Summerina Butterscotch Biscuit] is a bushy upright, clump-forming herbaceous perennial with lance-shaped somewhat toothed dark green hairy leaves. It produces numerous large buttery yellow, darker butterscotch orange petals towards the base around a brown central cone. This variety incorporates the appearance of a Rudbeckia and the hardiness of an Echinacea and flowers over a long period from summer into autumn.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Coneflower, Echinacea, Black-Eyed Susan
Common names
Rudbeckia x Echinacea 'Et Rdb 410' (PBR)
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2 feet [60 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Long flowering period - The plant blooms for an extended season, providing vibrant colors throughout summer and sometimes into autumn.
- Drought resistance - Once established, it is quite tolerant of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Attracts pollinators - It lures butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Easy to grow - Known for its low maintenance requirements, it's suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Versatile in landscaping - Can be planted in borders, containers, or as a focal point in the garden, offering flexibility in design.
- Rustic charm - Its daisy-like flowers add a touch of wilderness and natural beauty to any garden setting.
- Deer resistant - Less likely to be damaged by deer, making it an ideal choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
- Hardy nature - It can withstand harsh weather conditions once established, making it a resilient addition to the garden.
- Cut flower potential - The flowers can be cut and used in bouquets, maintaining their beauty even after being harvested.
- Vibrant display - The warm, sunny hues complement many garden palettes and create a cheerful atmosphere.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rudbeckia, also known as Black-eyed Susan, can be used in natural dye production where the petals and other plant parts can provide yellow, orange, and greenish colors depending on the mordant used.
- The fibers from the stems of Black-eyed Susan plants can be used in the making of a rustic twine for garden tying or craft projects.
- Pressed Black-eyed Susan flowers can be incorporated into botanical art such as creating bookmarks, greeting cards, or framed specimens for home decoration.
- The plant's visually striking blooms are often used in photography projects or workshops to teach macro photography techniques.
- As a component of floral waters, the gentle scent of Black-eyed Susan petals can be infused into water for use in homemade cosmetics or room refreshers.
- Black-eyed Susan seeds can be used in bird feed mixes, attracting a variety of birds, particularly finches, to the garden.
- The flowers can be used in educational settings to teach children about plant biology and pollination through direct observation of insects visiting the blooms.
- The dried seed heads of Black-eyed Susan can be used in crafting, for example, by spraying them with metallic or colored paint to create a decorative element in dried floral arrangements.
- In permaculture gardens, Black-eyed Susan plants can be used to provide seasonal ground cover, reducing weed growth and helping to retain soil moisture.
- Black-eyed Susan blooms can be floated in water bowls or birdbaths to add beauty and attract insects, creating a mini-ecosystem that birds might visit for food.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Rudbeckia, commonly known as Black-eyed Susan, is not specifically used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Black-eyed Susan is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Rudbeckia, commonly known as Black-eyed Susan, is a symbol of longevity because it is a hardy plant that returns year after year, conveying the idea of immortality and survival through challenges.
- Justice: In some folklore, the Black-eyed Susan represents justice, perhaps stemming from its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, symbolizing fairness and adaptability.
- Sunshine: With its bright yellow petals that resemble the sun, the Black-eyed Susan is often associated with positivity, happiness, and radiance, representing a sunny disposition.
WaterConeflowers, like the Rudbeckia Summerina Butterscotch Biscuit, should be watered deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth, which makes the plants more drought tolerant. Water the plant with about 1 inch of water once a week, adjusting for rainfall, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During prolonged dry periods or extreme heat, increase watering to twice per week, ensuring that approximately 1 gallon is distributed evenly around the plant. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant early in the day.
LightConeflowers thrive in full sunlight, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. The Rudbeckia Summerina Butterscotch Biscuit will perform best when planted in a location that receives unfiltered sunlight throughout the day, as this maximizes blooming potential and overall health. If necessary, they can tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be reduced.
TemperatureConeflowers are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The Rudbeckia Summerina Butterscotch Biscuit does well in temperatures between 60°F and 70°F, which are ideal for vigorous growth. They can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about -30°F and can handle summer highs up to 90°F. However, extreme temperatures may affect the plant's health and blooming.
PruningPruning coneflowers like the Rudbeckia Summerina Butterscotch Biscuit is mainly for aesthetic purposes and to encourage more blooms. Deadheading spent flowers can promote a second bloom period and prevent self-seeding, if undesired. Prune back the plants to about 1-2 inches above the ground in late fall or early spring before new growth starts. Cutting back can be done every year, ideally in the spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflower 'Butterscotch Biscuit' thrives best in well-draining soil rich in organic matter, with a soil pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. A mixture of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand can create an optimal growing environment for this plant, aiding in drainage and nutrient availability.
RepottingConeflower 'Butterscotch Biscuit' generally does not need frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its current container, showing signs of root crowding.
Humidity & MistingConeflower 'Butterscotch Biscuit' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to a range of conditions and is tolerant of drier air, making it suitable for typical outdoor garden environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and well-draining soil mix.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleRudbeckia Summerina Butterscotch Biscuit starts its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination in early spring, gives rise to a young seedling. The seedling then develops into a vegetative plant, forming a rosette of leaves while establishing a root system. As the plant matures, it undergoes vegetative growth, producing larger leaves and branching stems in preparation for flowering. During the summer months, flower buds form and bloom into the characteristic yellow-orange flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds, completing the reproductive stage. As a perennial, the plant then enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, preserving energy to regrow in the following season.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring-Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Rudbeckia Summerina Butterscotch Biscuit, commonly known as Coneflower, is by seed. To propagate, seeds should be sown in late winter to early spring, ideally indoors to control the environment. After the threat of frost has passed and seedlings are strong enough, you can transplant them outdoors into well-drained soil. Plant seeds approximately 1/4 inch deep (about 6 millimeters) and space plants around 18 to 24 inches apart (45 to 60 centimeters), giving them room to grow and access to sunlight. Regular watering is essential until the plants are well established, after which Coneflower becomes more drought tolerant.
