Species coneflower
yellow-black flower with green stem and green sepals

coneflower

Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Green Wizard'

Also Known As - western coneflower
Coneflower (Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Green Wizard') is a daisy-like perennial plant with bright green foliage and large yellow-brown flowers blooming from late summer into autumn. The flowers have an interesting conical look hence the common name. It is perfect for growing in borders and naturalizing in meadows as it will self-seed. It is a herbaceous perennial species, preferring full sun and well-drained soil. It has a vigorous habit and grows rapidly making it a great choice for filling up larger empty spaces. Coneflower is simple to maintain and it is said to attract bees and other pollinators.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 9

Flowers:

Purple to black disk atop green bracts Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Fruits:

green,brown Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The coneflower (Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Green Wizard') is a low-maintenance plant that requires moderate watering during its active growing period. It should be watered about once every week. In the spring and summer, when the plant is actively growing, provide enough water to moisten the soil around the plant, but make sure that the soil is not waterlogged. During the autumn and winter, when the plant is dormant, reduce watering to once every 2 weeks, or less if the soil is still moist. In the case of extended dry periods during the summer, water more often to ensure adequate hydration.

sunlight

Coneflower (Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Green Wizard') requires full sun for the best possible growth and blooms. As a garden perennial, this plant should receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. The plant can tolerate some light shade, particularly in the heat of mid-summer, but sun is essential to produce the best color and flowering. When planted in full sun, this species will produce the most vibrant blooms and bushier foliage.

pruning

The cone flower (Rudbergia occidentalis 'Green Wizard') should be pruned annually in late winter or early spring just before new growth begins. Pruning helps encourage vigorous growth, more abundant flowering, and a healthy plant. To prune, simply snip off any dead or damaged stems at the base, cutting just above an outward or downward-facing leaf bud. For a more aggressive pruning, more stems can be cut to the ground to stimulate more active growth. Pruning should not reduce the plant's growth by more than 1-third, and should be done sparingly with minimal effort as over-pruning can result in fewer flowers and more foliage production.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Coneflowers typically start flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Green Wizard' is in August and September.

Starts Flowering

Coneflowers typically start flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Green Wizard' is in August and September.

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.