Henry Eilers Sweet Coneflower

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

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

Distinctive Features

'Henry Eilers' stands out with its unusual, tube-shaped petals that radiate around a prominent dark brown center, creating a striking, textural display from late summer through fall. The nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while the seed heads provide food for birds in the cooler months. This variety forms upright clumps with sturdy, branching stems that rise above soft, fragrant foliage. Ideal for adding height and structure to borders or meadows, its bold form and reliable blooms make it a standout in any landscape.

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; tolerates short periods of drought once mature.
• 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.
• Bird Gardens: Seed heads provide food for birds in fall and winter.
• Naturalized Plantings: Perfect for meadows, prairies, and wildflower landscapes.
• Back-of-Border Plantings: Tall stature adds structure and height.
• Cut Flower Gardens: Unique blooms are excellent for fresh arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

Henry Eilers 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 Henry Eilers Sweet Coneflower?

Henry Eilers Sweet Coneflower offers unique, quilled blooms, pollinator support, and reliable performance, making it an excellent choice for naturalized and pollinator-friendly landscapes.

• Distinctive Quilled Blooms: Tube-shaped petals create a unique textural display.
• Wildlife Support: Attracts pollinators and provides food for birds.
• Tall and Upright Habit: Adds structure and height to garden plantings.
• Low Maintenance: Thrives with minimal care once established.
• Deer Resistant: Foliage is unappealing to browsing animals.

For unique texture, bold color, and wildlife support, Henry Eilers Sweet Coneflower (Rudbeckia subtomentosa 'Henry Eilers') is an exceptional focal point choice for naturalized and pollinator-friendly landscapes.