Giant coneflower Rudbeckia maxima
ABOUT
Commonly referred to as great coneflower, Rudbeckia maxima showcases a striking appearance that is easily recognizable in gardens and landscapes. This plant possesses large, bluish-green leaves that are elongated and slightly waxy, with a prominent central vein and gently serrated edges. The broad foliage forms a basal clump from which tall flower stalks emerge. Atop these stalks, the great coneflower boasts bold, daisy-like flowers. Each flower features a central cone that is tall, conical, and exhibits a deep brown to black color. Surrounding the cone is a fringe of bright yellow petals that droop elegantly as they radiate outward, resembling rays of sunshine. These petals can be quite lengthy, adding to the visual interest of the bloom. The great coneflower is also known for its distinctive seed heads, which persist after the petals have fallen, providing an appealing texture and shape within the garden. These seed heads are favored by birds, especially finches, which are attracted to the seeds for food. This plant's overall appearance—with its contrasting blue-green leaves and vibrant yellow flowers—is often used to add a dramatic touch to garden designs, playing well against other perennials and serving as a backdrop to smaller plants. Its presence is known to attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees, adding not just beauty but also ecological value to the area it inhabits.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Great Coneflower, Giant Coneflower, Large Coneflower, Cabbage Leaf Coneflower
Common names
Rudbeckia maxima.
ToxicityTo humans
Giant coneflower (Rudbeckia maxima) is generally not considered toxic to humans. It is a species commonly grown in gardens and is not known to have toxic properties that would cause harm upon incidental contact or ingestion. As with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could occur, but there is no widespread documentation of toxicity in humans associated with the giant coneflower.
To pets
Giant coneflower (Rudbeckia maxima) is not known to be toxic to pets. It is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes and does not typically pose a risk if pets come into contact with or ingest the plant. As with all non-food plants, consumption in large amounts may cause gastrointestinal upset simply due to the fact that it is not part of their normal diet, but the giant coneflower is not recognized for containing substances that are poisonous to animals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
7 feet (2.13 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.21 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Wildlife: Rudbeckia maxima, commonly known as giant coneflower, is attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which can help pollinate the garden.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its tall stems and large, yellow flowers, giant coneflower adds a dramatic touch to landscapes and gardens.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, giant coneflower is quite drought-resistant, making it beneficial for xeriscaping and low-water-use gardens.
- Easy to Grow: It is generally easy to cultivate, requiring minimal care, making it a good choice for beginner gardeners.
- Long Blooming Period: Giant coneflower has a long flowering season, usually from midsummer to early fall, providing extended interest in the garden.
- Naturalizing: Rudbeckia maxima readily self-seeds under appropriate conditions, filling out natural spaces or meadows, and creating a more robust environment without much human intervention.
- Erosion Control: The root system can help stabilize soil, preventing erosion on banks or slopes.
- Edible Parts: While not the primary use, some parts of the plant are edible for humans; for example, seeds are enjoyed by birds.
- Wildlife Habitat: The plant provides cover for small wildlife, such as birds, which may use it for protection or nesting.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rudbeckia maxima, commonly known as giant coneflower, can be used as a natural dye, where the plant's flowers provide a yellow pigment suitable for dyeing fabrics.
- The sturdy, tall stems of giant coneflower can be used in floral arrangements either fresh or dried, adding a vertical element with its cone-shaped seed heads.
- The seed heads of giant coneflower can be left on the plant over winter to provide architectural interest in frosty garden landscapes and serve as food for birds.
- Butterfly gardens often include giant coneflower as it is attractive to butterflies, providing a nectar source for various species.
- Giant coneflower's extensive root system can be utilized in erosion control, helping to stabilize soil on slopes or in areas prone to washing away.
- In larger landscape designs, giant coneflower can be planted en masse to create a dramatic visual impact with its tall, striking flower spikes.
- Pond or water garden edges can be adorned with giant coneflower, where the plant's height and form contrast beautifully with the horizontal plane of the water.
- The dead stalks and seed heads of giant coneflower can be used as natural stakes in the garden, supporting smaller, more delicate plants.
- Giant coneflower can act as a natural privacy screen when planted in rows or clusters, providing a visually appealing barrier that attracts wildlife.
- In educational gardens, giant coneflower can be used to discuss and demonstrate the importance of native plants in supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Great Coneflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Great Coneflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Optimism and joy: Often associated with the bright yellow blooms that resemble the sun, it symbolizes warmth, happiness, and positivity.
- Longevity and good health: With its sturdy stems and long-lasting flowers, it is a symbol of a long life and good health.
- Adaptability and survival: Rudbeckia maxima has the ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, symbolizing adaptability and the ability to survive through challenges.
- Encouragement and motivation: The striking appearance of the flower can be a symbol of encouragement, inspiring one to move forward with strength and determination.
- Justice: In a more historical or mythological context, certain species of Rudbeckia were used as a symbol of justice and fairness, potentially due to their even and radial distribution of petals.
WaterWhen caring for Rudbeckia maxima, commonly known as Giant Coneflower, ensure it receives regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. During the growing season in spring and summer, water the plant once or twice per week with about one inch of water each time, which is roughly 0.6 gallons for an average-sized plant. Adjust the frequency depending on weather conditions; more water may be needed during dry spells or less if it's rainy. Decrease watering in the fall and winter when the plant is dormant. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
LightGiant Coneflower thrives best in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily to grow robustly and bloom well. The plant can tolerate some partial shade, especially in the hotter afternoon hours, but too much shade may result in leggy plants with fewer flowers. For the best performance, place Giant Coneflower in a spot where it will receive ample sunlight throughout the day.
TemperatureGiant Coneflower can withstand a range of temperatures but prefers to grow in conditions between 60°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to 35°F and can tolerate summer highs up to approximately 90°F. To ensure optimal growth and flowering, it's important to protect it from extreme cold and provide mulch during winter to insulate the roots in areas that experience lower than ideal temperatures.
PruningPrune Giant Coneflower to maintain its shape, remove dead or damaged stems, and encourage fuller growth and more blooms. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning can be done yearly, cutting back the spent foliage from the previous year to ground level. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers during the blooming season, can also encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding if desired.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGreat Coneflower thrives in a well-draining, fertile soil mix with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. A good mix contains loam, compost, and perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage and nutrient retention, which is vital for strong growth and vivid flower production.
RepottingGreat Coneflower doesn't require frequent repotting as it's a perennial that can be divided every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding in the garden. Repotting is more relevant to container-grown plants, which may need repotting every 2-3 years.
Humidity & MistingGreat Coneflower, being a native prairie plant, is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and usually thrives in average outdoor conditions without the need for specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure strong light, moderate watering, and air circulation for indoor Great Coneflower.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, ensure good drainage, and space adequately for outdoor Great Coneflower.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Rudbeckia maxima, commonly known as the Giant Coneflower, begins with seed germination which typically occurs in the spring when soil temperatures warm up. Seedlings emerge, and the plant establishes a rosette of basal leaves during its first year of growth. In subsequent years, the Giant Coneflower develops tall stems and large, coarse leaves, with flowering typically occurring from early to late summer. The flowers are characterized by bright yellow petals surrounding a dark, cone-shaped center; they attract various pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds which are then dispersed by wind, gravity, or wildlife to start a new cycle. In the fall, the plant dies back to the ground, but the roots survive the winter, allowing the plant to perennialize and enter a new growth cycle the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Rudbeckia maxima, commonly known as giant coneflower, is through seed sowing. The best time to sow the seeds is in late winter to early spring. To propagate by seeds, start by scattering them thinly on the surface of a pre-moistened, well-draining seed starting mix. These seeds need light to germinate, so they should not be covered with soil. Instead, gently press them into the mix to ensure good contact. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the container in a warm area with plenty of indirect sunlight. Germination typically occurs within 2 to 3 weeks at a temperature of around 70°F (approximately 21°C). Once seedlings have grown large enough to handle and there's no risk of frost, they can be transplanted outdoors into a garden bed or larger pots.
