Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black-Eyed Susan)

Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm' is a small to medium-sized cultivar of black-eyed Susan bred for its compact growth habit and profusely flowering nature. Growing to a mature size of 2-3' tall with a spread of 18-24", and producing a dense crop of attractive, long-lasting golden flowers, it is easy to see why the cultivar was named for a 'golden storm,' with showy blooms lasting from the middle of summer well into the early autumn. With its upright habit and not-too-large footprint, 'Goldsturm' has become something of a standard planting for its dense blooms in pollinator gardens, meadows, small spaces, and containers.

The large number of blooms through the summer and autumn months make 'Goldsturm' a valuable plant to butterflies and other pollinators, but they also make it valuable to birds and small mammals as the dried seed heads persist into the winter months. Like other black-eyed Susans, Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' performs best medium-moist, well-drained soils, but is not especially picky about soil consistency, tolerating some amount of clay and sand. A perfect pick for a variety of garden types, 'Goldsturm' is resistant to deer and rabbit damage, drought, and poor soils, making it an excellent addition to home landscapes for color, ecological appeal, and low-maintenance upkeep.