Goldsturm Black-Eyed Susan

Goldsturm Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm')

Goldsturm Black-Eyed Susan is a reliable way to keep sunny beds bright from mid-summer into fall. It forms a sturdy clump that fills in neatly and blooms heavily with golden daisies that hold their color in heat and humidity. The flowers are a steady draw for butterflies and other pollinators, and the plant repeats well when you want consistent rhythm in a border. If you need long-season color that looks intentional without constant maintenance, this is a proven performer.

Distinctive Features

This classic perennial produces golden-yellow, daisy-like flowers with a prominent dark brown cone, typically blooming from June to September depending on climate. The habit is upright and clump-forming, with dark green foliage that stays attractive through much of the season. Mature plants commonly reach about 2 to 3 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide, creating a full, garden-ready presence without sprawling. It is especially effective in repeated groups, where the uniform habit and long bloom window create a clean, cohesive finish.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun is best for the strongest stems and the heaviest flowering, with part sun tolerated.
• Soil: Average, well-drained soil is ideal, and it tolerates clay if drainage is reasonable.
• Water: Dry to medium moisture is preferred, with good drought tolerance once established.
• USDA Zones: Hardy in zones 3 to 9.
• Mature Size: About 2 to 3 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use a small group as a late-summer focal point where the golden blooms can brighten a key view in the landscape.
• Mass Planting: Plant in drifts for a bold sweep of color that reads well from a distance.
• Perennial Borders: Mix into sunny borders for dependable mid to late-season bloom and a tidy clump.
• Pollinator Gardens: Include in wildlife-friendly beds to support butterflies and beneficial insects through peak season.
• Naturalized Areas: Use in informal plantings where its long bloom and sturdy habit can repeat and fill space naturally.

Low Maintenance Care

• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to encourage continued flowering and keep the planting looking fresh.
• Watering: Water consistently during the first season, then only during extended drought.
• Fertilizing: Use a light spring compost topdressing, since overly rich soil can reduce flowering and soften growth.
• Cutback: Cut stems back in late fall or early spring, depending on whether you want winter structure.
• Dividing: Divide clumps every few years if vigor declines or if you want to expand your planting.

Why Choose Goldsturm Black-Eyed Susan?

• Long Bloom Season: Provides weeks of golden color from mid-summer into fall.
• Strong Garden Habit: Clump-forming growth stays neat and repeats beautifully in borders.
• Heat and Drought Tolerance: Handles summer conditions well once established.
• Pollinator Value: Flowers support butterflies and other beneficial garden visitors.
• Easy to Combine: Pairs naturally with ornamental grasses, coneflowers, salvias, and late-season perennials.

Goldsturm is a straightforward choice when you want dependable color and a clean, repeatable shape in the landscape. Give it sun, decent drainage, and simple deadheading, and it will reward you with a bright, long-lasting display year after year. Planted in groups, it creates a confident late-season finish that makes the whole garden feel more complete.