Rudbeckia speciosa
perennial

Showy Coneflower

Rudbeckia speciosa

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Rudbeckia speciosa is a perennial plant featuring large, daisy-like flowers with bright yellow petals and a prominent central cone, complemented by coarse, hairy foliage that forms a bushy habit. This species is appreciated for its long-lasting summer blooms and its ability to attract pollinators, making it a popular choice for wildlife gardens.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright and cheerful, Rudbeckia speciosa adds vibrant color to sunny borders and attracts pollinators, enhancing garden ecology.
Practical UsesResistant to drought and deer, it requires minimal watering and protection, ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees, butterflies, and birds, promoting biodiversity and a healthy garden ecosystem.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  3. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
  4. Divide plants every 3 years for best growth.
  5. Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Transplant in early spring or fall for best results.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil and full sun for vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness
  • Fertilize annually with organic compost

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
  • Don't disturb roots during peak flowering
  • Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Sunny perennial borderWildflower meadowButterfly-friendly garden

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Lavandula angustifolia Coreopsis verticillata Gaillardia Rudbeckia hirta

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Showy Coneflower questions

What zones can Showy Coneflower grow in?

Showy Coneflower 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 Showy Coneflower deer resistant?

Yes — Showy Coneflower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Showy Coneflower bloom?

Showy Coneflower typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Showy Coneflower need full sun?

Showy Coneflower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Showy Coneflower drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Showy Coneflower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Showy Coneflower with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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