The golden shades of Prairie Sun's blooms, shining out above its dark green foliage, are indeed reminiscent of the blazing sun on the prairie, living up to the descriptive name of this unique new variety in the increasingly popular Rudbeckia species. This most valuable of summer annuals is always well represented in the Fleuroselect trials, and the judges considered Prairie Sun, with its stunning light/dark yellow combination, sturdy upright stems and excellent weather resistance, to be head and shoulders above the rest.

Rudbeckia Prairie Sun is also the recipient of the All-America Selections award for performance in North American trials. 

Use

Traditionally orange, Rudbeckia is now also available in shades of yellow or mahogany red. Rudbeckia 'Prairie Sun' produces a unique colour combination, of a dark green 'cone' at the center and golden yellow petals with sun-kissed pale edges. Its sturdy stems grow to a height of approximately 80cm, and flower abundantly from July until October, providing a golden tint of 'Prairie Sun' in the garden even after the rays of the summer sun have faded.

Market Value

Amateur gardeners are fond of Rudbeckia as it is easily raised from seed, and a relatively 'forgiving' plant. Growers of the taller varieties are rewarded with blooms, which can also be cut to provide a fine indoor display.

Background Information

Rudbeckia hirta originates from the U.S.A., but has become a firm garden favourite world-wide. Its large, daisy-like flowers have a prominent cone-shaped disc at the centre, giving it its common English name 'Cone Flower'. The species is renowned for robust plants with strong colour and a long flowering period. The foliage of the plants is not very dense, making Rudbeckia an especially companionable species that mixes well with neighbouring plants to provide an attractive border display.