
Shining Coneflower 'Autumn Sun'
Rudbeckia nitida 'Autumn Sun'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
72 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Rudbeckia nitida 'Autumn Sun' is a tall, clump-forming perennial with large, daisy-like flowers featuring bright yellow petals and a prominent central cone, complemented by lush green foliage. This cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant autumnal bloom and its robust growth habit, making it an excellent choice for bold, late-season garden displays.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring.
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
- Place in full sun for best flowering.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and encourage vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent blooms to promote continuous flowering
- Divide every few years to maintain vigor
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Neglect deadheading, reducing bloom production
- Planting in poorly drained soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Shining Coneflower 'Autumn Sun' questions
What zones can Shining Coneflower 'Autumn Sun' grow in?
Shining Coneflower 'Autumn Sun' is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Shining Coneflower 'Autumn Sun' deer resistant?
Yes — Shining Coneflower 'Autumn Sun' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Shining Coneflower 'Autumn Sun' bloom?
Shining Coneflower 'Autumn Sun' typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Shining Coneflower 'Autumn Sun' need full sun?
Shining Coneflower 'Autumn Sun' does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Shining Coneflower 'Autumn Sun' drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Shining Coneflower 'Autumn Sun' handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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