Coneflower Rudbeckia Summerina Orange = 'Et Rdb 01' (PBR) (Summerina Series)
ABOUT
Rudbeckia Summerina Orange is a striking plant characterized by its vibrant color palette and distinctive flower form. It is part of the Summerina Series, and is also commonly known as the Coneflower or Black-eyed Susan. This plant features a lush array of foliage that serves as a backdrop for its remarkable blooms. The leaves are typically bright green and have a rough, hairy texture which is quite common among plants in this family. The flowers are the most captivating aspect of the Summerina Orange. They display a bold orange hue that can add a touch of warmth to any garden. The blossoms are composed of two parts; the perimeter consists of ray florets that look like petals spreading outwards, while the center is comprised of a prominent, raised cone that is dark brown or black in color, giving it the 'black-eyed' reference. These cones are actually a cluster of tiny tubular flowers, which are particularly attractive to pollinating insects such as bees and butterflies. The petals themselves may have a gradient of color, fading from a darker shade at the base near the cone to a lighter tip. The plant's blooms are typically robust in size, each forming on the end of its own individual stem and collectively creating a stunning display that can last throughout the summer months. Its ability to produce an abundant array of flowers makes it a favorite among gardeners looking for long-lasting color in their outdoor spaces. The overall visual effect of the Rudbeckia Summerina Orange is a bright and cheerful one, sure to add a splash of sunshine to any planting scheme it becomes a part of.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Coneflower, Black-eyed Susan, Gloriosa Daisy.
Common names
Rudbeckia 'Et Rdb 01'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Rudbeckia hirta, also known as Black-Eyed Susan, is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, individual sensitivities can vary, and some people may experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction if they have sensitive skin or allergies when handling the plant. If ingested in large quantities, it could potentially cause stomach upset or discomfort due to the plant's natural defense mechanisms. In general, it is advisable to avoid consuming parts of ornamental plants.
To pets
In pets, Black-Eyed Susan may cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and lethargy. As with any case of suspected plant ingestion by a pet, it is best to consult a veterinarian for appropriate guidance and treatment. It's also important to discourage pets from chewing on garden plants, especially those that are not known to be safe for ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Rudbeckia Summerina Orange is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, this plant can withstand periods of low water availability, making it suitable for xeriscaping and reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Long blooming period: The plant produces flowers throughout the summer into the fall, adding vibrant color to the garden for an extended period.
- Low maintenance: Rudbeckia Summerina Orange generally requires minimal care, making it an ideal choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Deer resistance: The plant is not a preferred food source for deer, reducing the likelihood of damage in areas with deer populations.
- Hardiness: The plant is robust and can survive in a range of conditions, including hot, humid climates and cold winters.
- Landscape versatility: It can be used in a variety of landscape designs, including borders, wildflower gardens, and as a cut flower in floral arrangements.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafting dried floral arrangements: Rudbeckia, also known as Black-eyed Susan, can be dried and used in crafting long-lasting floral arrangements that add a rustic charm to home decor.
- Natural fabric dye: The brightly colored petals of Black-eyed Susan can be boiled to create a natural dye for fabrics, yielding shades of yellow and orange.
- Photography subject: With their vibrant colors, Black-eyed Susans are a popular subject for photographers looking to capture the beauty of nature and create striking floral images.
- Garden contrast artist: When planted amidst plants with different foliage or flower colors, Black-eyed Susan can provide stunning visual contrast in garden designs.
- Educational tool: Gardeners can use Black-eyed Susan to educate about pollination and the importance of native plants in supporting local ecosystems.
- Composting: As Black-eyed Susan plants die back or require pruning, the organic matter can be added to compost bins as a source of green material to enhance compost quality.
- Symbolic gift: Because they symbolize justice, Black-eyed Susans can be given as gifts to convey a message of fairness or to celebrate legal victories and milestones.
- Palette inspiration: Artists can look to the warm tones of Black-eyed Susan for color palette inspiration, particularly for autumn-themed art projects.
- Wildlife habitat: Planting Black-eyed Susan can provide a habitat for beneficial garden insects and offer a food source for birds when seed heads are left during fall and winter.
- Seasonal marker: The blooming period of Black-eyed Susan can serve as a natural marker of the midsummer to fall season transition in the garden calendar.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Coneflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Coneflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity: Rudbeckia, commonly known as Black-eyed Susan, typically symbolizes longevity due to its long blooming season and ability to thrive in various conditions.
- Justice: In some cultural contexts, the black-eyed Susan has been associated with justice, perhaps because of its sturdy and upright nature.
- Good Fortune: The bright and sunny appearance of the Black-eyed Susan flower can be seen as a symbol of good luck and happiness, bringing with it a wish for joy and positivity.
WaterConeflower 'Summerina Orange' should be watered deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically once every week, though this may vary with weather conditions. During periods of drought or extreme heat, more frequent watering may be necessary, potentially twice a week, ensuring each plant receives around 1 gallon of water. Water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and to help prevent disease. In cooler weather or when rain is frequent, reduce watering to prevent soggy soil which can lead to root rot.
LightConeflower 'Summerina Orange' thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot is an open area that receives strong, unfiltered light for most of the day. If the light is too low or filtered through trees, the plant may not bloom as vigorously.
TemperatureConeflower 'Summerina Orange' does best in temperatures between 60°F and 70°F but can withstand temperatures as low as 30°F and as high as 80°F. The plants need to be protected from extreme cold and can benefit from mulching in winter to help insulate the roots.
PruningConeflower 'Summerina Orange' benefits from pruning to remove spent flowers, a process known as deadheading, to encourage further blooming throughout the season. In late winter or early spring, cut back any old foliage to make way for new growth. Pruning is typically done on an as-needed basis throughout the blooming season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilConeflowers thrive in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter and a pH of 5.8 to 6.8. A mix of loam, peat, and sand is ideal to ensure adequate drainage and fertility.
RepottingConeflowers typically need repotting every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingConeflowers are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but do best with average air moisture, avoiding overly humid conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, ensure good airflow, water as topsoil dries.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, space 18 inches apart.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleRudbeckia Summerina Orange, commonly known as Coneflower, begins its life cycle as a seed which, when sown, germinates in optimal conditions of warmth and moisture. The plant then develops into a seedling, exhibiting its first set of true leaves, and as it matures, it grows into a vegetative state where foliage and root systems become established. Following the vegetative stage, the plant enters the flowering phase, typically in the summer months, producing vibrant orange and yellow blooms that attract pollinators. After pollination, flowers develop into seed heads, which when mature, release seeds for the next generation. The Coneflower is a perennial, meaning it can survive more than two years in the wild, dying back to the crown during the winter and resuming growth from the same root system the following spring. Throughout its life, the plant may also undergo vegetative propagation through division, enabling gardeners to create new plants from separated clumps of the mature plant.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Rudbeckia Summerina Orange or Coneflower 'Et Rdb 01' is by division. This is typically done in the spring or fall, when the plant is not in active bloom. Gardeners should gently lift the clump of the plant from the ground and carefully separate it into smaller sections, ensuring that each new piece has a portion of the root system. Once divided, the new sections can be replanted into well-draining soil and watered thoroughly. It's important to space the new plants about 18 to 24 inches apart (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters) to allow for ample growth. This method of vegetative propagation helps to maintain the characteristics of the hybrid and is often preferred over seeding, which may result in variable offspring.
