Rudbeckia hirta 'Cherokee Sunset' is a stunning cultivar of black-eyed Susan, notable for its lush, double to semi-double flowers in shades ranging from yellow and orange to bronze and mahogany. This cultivar stands out in gardens and floral arrangements with its richly colored blooms.
Key Features:
-
Flower Color: A mix of yellow, orange, bronze, and mahogany, often with several colors on the same plant.
-
Bloom Time: 'Cherokee Sunset' typically blooms from mid-summer through early fall, providing a vibrant display for several months.
-
Height: The plant can reach heights of 2 to 3 feet.
-
Spread: It generally spreads about 1 to 2 feet.
-
Ecological Role: As a part of an organic garden, 'Cherokee Sunset' attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which are crucial for cross-pollination. The seeds provide food for birds in the colder months, supporting local wildlife.
-
Growing Tips:
-
Sunlight: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Full sun encourages the best bloom production.
-
Soil: Adapts well to a variety of soil types, but it thrives in well-drained soil.
-
Watering: Needs regular watering, especially during dry spells, to establish a robust root system. Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance.
-
Maintenance: Deadheading the spent blooms can encourage more flowering and prevent excessive self-seeding. It’s also helpful for maintaining a tidy plant appearance.
-
Pests and Diseases: While generally robust, 'Cherokee Sunset' can be susceptible to slugs, snails, and some fungal diseases in humid conditions.
Perennial Nature and Hardiness Zones:
-
Classification: Rudbeckia hirta 'Cherokee Sunset' is technically a tender perennial. In cooler climates, it is often grown as an annual because it may not survive harsh winters.
-
Hardiness Zones: This plant is perennial in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 through 10. In these zones, it can survive winter conditions and return the following year. In zones below 9, it should be treated as an annual or provided with winter protection to survive.
'Cherokee Sunset' is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add long-lasting color to their landscapes. It's also highly attractive to pollinators such as butterflies and bees, and the seeds produced by the flowers can attract birds during the fall and winter months. This variety’s robust blooms make it a favorite for both garden display and cut flower arrangements, adding a warm, rich palette to any setting.
