Rudbeckia hirta Enchanted Cosmic Eye (Enchanted Series)

RHS Plant Profile
black-eyed Susan [Enchanted Cosmic Eye]
Plants for pollinators
Herbaceous Perennial Annual Biennial

A biennial or short-lived perennial, often grown as an annual, to around 50cm high, with oval-shaped, bristly green leaves. Bright yellow daisy-like flowers, with a broad, dark purple-brown central ring, are produced from mid summer into autumn

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H3

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Rudbeckia may be annuals, biennials or rhizomatous herbaceous perennials, with simple or pinnately divided leaves and large daisy-like flower-heads with yellow or orange rays surrounding a prominent conical disk
Name Status
Trade

How to Grow

Cultivation

Best grown as a half-hardy annual, or with winter protection in colder areas. Thrives in moderately fertile, well-drained soil that does not dry out, in full sun or partial shade. See rudbeckia cultivation for more detailed advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by softwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Deadhead to remove spent flowers

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids, and to slugs on young growth

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews, especially on dry soils