Little Henry Sweet Coneflower

Little Henry Sweet Coneflower (Rudbeckia subtomentosa 'Little Henry')

Little Henry Sweet Coneflower (Rudbeckia subtomentosa 'Little Henry') is a compact, native perennial known for its unique quilled golden-yellow petals and dark brown centers. This late-summer bloomer adds distinctive texture, vibrant color, and an eye-catching focal point to pollinator gardens, borders, and naturalized landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Little Henry' features masses of bright, golden-yellow flowers with narrow, tubular petals and prominent dark centers. The quilled flower form adds an interesting textural element to garden spaces. Blooming from midsummer through fall, the nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while the seed heads provide food for birds in the cooler months. The compact, upright habit grows 3 to 4 feet tall, making it ideal for smaller garden spaces, borders, and naturalized settings. Its fragrant, toothed green foliage adds season-long interest and resilience to garden beds.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun; tolerates light shade but blooms best in full sun.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil but adapts to average soils once established.
• Water: Requires moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established.
• Humidity: Tolerates a range of humidity levels.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9, adaptable to temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects with nectar-rich blooms.
• Bird Gardens: Seed heads provide food for birds in fall and winter.
• Naturalized Plantings: Perfect for meadows, prairies, and wildflower landscapes.
• Compact Borders: Upright, space-saving habit fits well into smaller spaces.
• Cut Flower Gardens: Unique quilled flowers add interest to fresh arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

Little Henry Sweet Coneflower is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial that thrives with minimal care once established.

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming or leave seed heads for winter interest.
• Fertilizing: Minimal fertilization is required; apply compost in early spring if desired.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Resistant to deer, rabbits, and most common pests.
• Winter Care: Leave seed heads for winter interest and wildlife food; cut back dead foliage in early spring.

Why Choose Little Henry Sweet Coneflower?

Little Henry Sweet Coneflower offers unique texture, pollinator support, and reliable performance, making it an excellent choice for naturalized and compact landscapes.

• Distinctive Quilled Blooms: Narrow, tubular petals add unique texture and interest.
• Compact Size: Upright habit is ideal for smaller spaces and garden borders.
• Pollinator and Bird Friendly: Attracts beneficial insects and provides food for birds.
• Low Maintenance: Thrives with minimal care once established.
• Drought Tolerant: Adapts well to dry conditions once mature.

For unique blooms, compact growth, and reliable garden performance, Little Henry Sweet Coneflower (Rudbeckia subtomentosa 'Little Henry') is an exceptional focal point choice for pollinator-friendly and naturalized landscapes.