Gloriosa Daisy Rudbeckia Seeds

Long used by the Native-American tribes, Gloriosa Daisy is originally from eastern and central North America, but has naturalized on other continents since the 1800s. Gloriosa Daisy is a natural variant of the popular ‘’Black Eyed Susan,’’ but with larger blooms and red accents towards the centre cone. A truly easy-to-grow wildflower, it will thrive even in partial shade and dry soil.

The plants grow to 1-3 feet tall and bear huge bicolour single blooms that can reach up to 4-8’’ wide. Gloriosa Daisy is a biennial plant that self-seeds readily, so prepare a dedicated area for your them to return every year or keep them contained by planting in pots. Gloriosa Daisies have long, slender stems, which makes them ideal for fresh cut bouquets. You can also leave them in the garden to enjoy their beautiful flowers all summer-long into early fall.

- Latin Name: Rudbeckia hirta
- Life Cycle: Perrenial
- Canada Hardiness Zone: 5-9
- Days to Maturity: Second year maturity
- Planting Depth: 3-4 mm
- Plant Spacing: 30 cm
- Growth Habit: 30-80 cm tall

GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

Rudbeckias thrive in the wild and grace many countryside meadows with their radiant, yellow petals. To start your own at home, plant seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date. If sowing directly outdoors, wait until the soil has warmed to 21 degrees. Lightly cover seeds with soil. Germination requires exposure to light and should occur in about a week’s time. A site with full sun and rich, well-drained soil is ideal.

Seedlings should be hardened off gradually when transferring outside. Plant seeds, or seedlings, close together to keep them from sprawling throughout the garden. If more space is allowed between each planting, blooms will stretch and establish a nice border. Providing ample space is also an effective way to prevent disease from creeping in and spreading. The perfect amount of space is about 45 cm between each flower. Rudbeckia typically grow to a height of 30-90 cm and can spread 30-45 cm, so plant according to your garden dimensions and desired growing habits.

Avoid high fertility and make sure that the soil and roots remain moist, but water only when absolutely necessary. Don’t let any moisture accumulate on the foliage, as this could increase the possibility of disease. Deadhead as flowers fade to extend their blooming period. Remove seed heads to prevent excessive self-sowing. Stalks can be cut back to try to achieve a second bloom in the fall. Plantings can be divided every few years to keep the perennials properly spaced and healthy. 

For cut flowers that are to be displayed, harvest right before the buds are fully open. By changing the water every day, blooms should last in a vase for 10 days or more. 

QUICK FACTS

- Rudbeckias are low-maintenance and drought-resistant, making them an ideal choice for water-wise gardens, raingardens and xeriscapes.

- Rudbeckia seeds will remain viable for 2 years if stored in a cool, dark place, ideally between 4 and 10⁰C. After that, the germination rate may start to go down.