Rudbeckias
Let these sunny stars light up your borders and containers right into autumn, says Graham Rice
A compact annual with upward-facing, gold, lemon or mahogany-and-gold flowers. Ideal in pots. 35cm x 30cm
You may be under the impression that this is the Year of the Virus, the Year of Staying at Home, the Year of the Boxed Set… But it’s also the Year of the Rudbeckia! Yes, really.
This notion was dreamt up by Fleuroselect, the organisation that promotes flower seeds across Europe, and cynical old me immediately says: “I’m not going to grow more rudbeckias just because a trade organisation wants to sell more seeds and plants.” But here’s the thing: don’t take Fleuroselect’s word for it, take mine. Rudbeckias are really good plants. As perennials for a formal border or prairie planting, as cut flowers, as annuals for summer colour or for punchy containers they’re superb. Tough, tolerant, colourful and long lasting – about all they need is sun and not to be waterlogged.
And while varieties with traditional daisy-like orange or yellow flowers are certainly impressive, recent developments have brought more colours and new flower forms. There are coppery, rusty or bronze shades, as well as red or even green, and there quilled petals and doubles of all kinds. You’re bound to find plenty you like.
It’s also, I have to say, the Year of the Cucumber – but that’s a little more difficult to get excited about…
Position in any reasonable soil in full sun.
Perennial varieties are hardy throughout the UK.
Annual varieties are not usually fully hardy.
All flower from July to October.
Aftercare Deadhead to encourage prolific blooming and to prevent self-seeding (if you wish). Staking is rarely necessary except for tall types.
Where to buy bethchatto.co.uk, 01206 822007; chilternseeds.co.uk, 01491 824675; mr-fothergills. co.uk, 0333 777 3936. NB Some companies may have temporarily suspended their phone service or have a reduced ordering capacity.