Coneflowers typically start flowering in late spring or early summer, usually in May or June.
coneflower
Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Black Beauty'
The coneflower, scientifically known as Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Black Beauty', is a herbaceous perennial native to North America with striking black-tinted flowers. Its black-centered petals of maroon, copper, and gold boldly stand out against its dark foliage with hues of deep maroon-bronze. Coneflowers grow to the height of 3-4 feet tall and about 1-2 feet wide, blooming from late summer into fall. This low-maintenance plant requires little attention and is a great addition to any garden soil. It is a great source of food for beneficial insects, birds, and butterflies as well.
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Seed Propagation,Division,Root Cutting,Stem Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
3 - 9
Flowers:
Black ringed with gold Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green,black
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Low
watering
Water Coneflowers deeply once or twice a week (depending on temperature and rainfall) during the growing season. As they are drought tolerant, water only when the soil is dry to the touch. Water at the base of the plant in the morning hours, so the water can soak in and not evaporate in the heat of the day. Once the plants are established, they should require no more than 1 inch of water per week. In periods of extreme heat, plants may need to be watered more frequently.
sunlight
Coneflower (Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Black Beauty') prefers full sun when grown outdoors, meaning it needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It also benefits from alternative sources of indirect sunlight and will do fine in partial shade if necessary. When grown indoors, this plant needs bright, indirect light. Make sure the area around the Coneflower is well-ventilated and that its leaves are not in direct contact with any other plant. Additionally, it should be placed away from direct drafts from windows or doors.
pruning
Coneflowers (Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Black Beauty') are a perennial flowering plant that thrive in gardens and landscapes in hardiness zones 3-9. Pruning for this species should occur in spring. Pruning should involve removing any dead or straggly stems. This should be done as soon as the stems in question are identified to allow the plant to maintain healthy and vigorous growth. Pruning at this time is just as important as pruning the flower heads and overall shape of the plant during summer or early fall. Pruning should be conducted lightly, with mostly minor maintenance pruning to maintain the desired form of the plant.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
Coneflowers typically start flowering in late spring or early summer, usually in May or June.
Hardiness Map
FAQ
Can coneflowers grow well in containers?
Yes, coneflowers can grow extremely well in containers. The best container for them is a large one as they prefer a lot of room to grow their roots. Additionally, be sure to use a fertile and well-draining potting soil and water regularly. Potted coneflowers should be fertilized monthly with a balanced fertilzer and divided yearly in order to ensure optimal health and flowering of these beloved plants.
Could coneflowers be used for landscaping?
Yes, coneflowers can be used for landscaping. They are generally perennials and come in a variety of colors, including yellow, pink, burgundy, and white. They are very hardy and require little attention and care, making them a good choice for low-maintenance landscaping. When planted in clusters, coneflowers bloom throughout the summer and can provide beautiful colors and texture to your garden. Coneflowers are also very attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds and can help you attract wildlife to your yard.
Could coneflowers be planted in a meadow?
Yes, coneflowers can be planted in a meadow. Coneflowers grow best in sunny locations and their long stems make them an excellent choice for a meadow landscape. They will enjoy sandy or loamy soils that drain well and need supplemental water during periods of drought. They can also be cultivated in areas with higher humidity, although they may require more maintenance and protection from insect pests. Coneflowers will add a splash of beautiful color to the meadow and will attract native bees and butterflies which can help to create a vibrant, natural environment.
Could coneflowers be planted in a meadow?
Yes, coneflowers can be planted in a meadow. They usually thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. If your meadow soil is too moist, coneflowers may not do well. It's best to prepare the soil with compost or aged manure and always water the plants in the morning to reduce the chances of disease. Coneflowers attract beneficial insects, butterflies, and birds, making them a great addition to any meadow.
Could coneflowers be grown as cut flowers?
Yes, coneflowers can be grown as cut flowers. A few varieties of coneflower, such as 'White Swan' and 'Double Decker', can handle being cut and put in arrangements. However, it is important to wait until the blooms are just beginning to open or fully opened to ensure that they last longer. For best results, cut the stems when the flowers are dry and bring them inside quickly. Proper care for the cut flower coneflowers should include changing water regularly and recutting the stems when needed. In general, coneflowers are an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements.
Is it true that coneflowers bloom for a long time?
Yes, it is true that coneflowers bloom for a long time. They are a hardy perennial flower which blooms from late spring until the first frost in autumn. The flowering period for these plants can last for up to 8 weeks, and the individual flowers last for about 10 days each. Coneflowers are a great addition to any garden, with their vibrant colors, long bloom time and ability to attract butterflies making them an excellent choice for any garden.
Should coneflowers be mulched in the winter?
Yes, coneflowers should be mulched in the winter. Mulching coneflowers helps to protect them from the elements, such as cold temperatures and harsh winds. It also helps to promote water retention and prevent weed growth. For optimal results, spread a layer of mulch around the base of the coneflowers, making sure to keep it slightly away from the stems and leaves. For added protection, consider using a thick layer of evergreen boughs or leaves. Just remember to remove the layer of mulch when temperatures rise in the spring, as the added protection can prevent the coneflower from getting its required light and water.
Are coneflowers biennial or perennial?
Coneflowers are generally thought of as a perennial flower, meaning that they can last for multiple years in an area and will be able to grow again year after year. While some coneflowers have the potential to be grown as a biennial, meaning that they will need to reseed and start over again after two years, they are more commonly grown as a perennial. This means that they will last much longer and can provide vibrant and cheerful blooms year after year.
