Rudbeckia laciniata 'Herbstsonne' (Autumn Sun Coneflower)

Rudbeckia 'Herbstsonne,' also called autumn sun coneflower, is a hybrid cultivar of the cutleaf coneflower, a sunflower-like, perennial wildflower closely related to the black-eyed Susan. Often referred to as Rudbeckia laciniata 'Herbstsonne' or Rudbeckia nitida 'Herbstsonne,' it is likely a hybrid of the two species, though its exact parentage is unknown: 'Herbstsonne' has the cut-leaf behavior of Rudbeckia laciniata and is closer in size and flower structure to Rudbeckia nitida, so the truth is likely somewhere in the gray area between. Growing to 3-6' in height and forming large clumps up to 3' wide, 'Herbstsonne' is noted for its showy, upright flowers which bloom from mid summer through the fall. Flowers are up to 4" across, striking lemon yellow in color, and have lighter colored central cones than many other Rudbeckia in the garden.

Drawing its German name from its fall flowering behavior, this 'autumn sun' coneflower is sure to add sunny appeal and a pop of color well into September, and will support pollinators and birds throughout its life cycle. Rudbeckia 'Herbstsonne' is moderately deer- and drought-resistant, and is fairly low-maintenance, requiring only full sun and medium-moist well-draining soils. Since 'Herbstsonne' can get so tall, it is possible that it will require staking if planted in areas that hold onto water or that have richer, fertile soils. If you don't feel like staking, 'Herbstsonne' also makes for excellent cut flowers, with large yellow blooms remaining health in vases for many days at a time.