Overview of Rudbeckia Columnaris Pursh
Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh, non Sims, commonly known as the tall coneflower plant, is a herbaceous wildflower that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The species is native to North America and can be found growing naturally in prairies, meadows, and open woods across the eastern United States.
General Appearance of Rudbeckia Columnaris Pursh
The tall coneflower is a robust, upright plant that grows to a height of 3-6 feet and 1-2 feet in width. The plant produces unique stems that are covered in white, woolly hairs and bear alternate, simple leaves that are coarsely toothed and lanceolate with a rough texture.
The blooms of Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh are a striking shade of yellow and are characterized by glossy, broad petals surrounding a central cone-shaped disk that is large and hemispherical. The blooms are typically 3-4 inches in diameter and are held on top of the branching stems. As the blooming season progresses and the blooms fade, the large cones become dark and woody, providing winter interest to the garden.
Uses of Rudbeckia Columnaris Pursh
Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its striking blooms, hardiness, and easy maintenance. The plant is often used in mixed perennial beds, wildflower meadows, and naturalized settings. It has also been used in prairie restoration projects due to its adaptability to a range of soil conditions, ability to self-seed, and tolerance to drought.
Aside from its ornamental uses, the tall coneflower is also used in medicinal treatments. Native Americans used the roots, leaves, and seeds of the plant as a poultice for wounds, sores, and snakebites. The plant was also used as a remedy for rheumatism, kidney problems, respiratory ailments, and fever.
Overall, Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh is a versatile plant with ornamental and medicinal benefits that are valued by gardeners, landscapers, and herbalists alike.
Light Requirements
Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh requires full sun exposure to thrive. It grows best in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Plants grown in shaded areas tend to bloom less, and the flowers may be smaller than those grown in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9, meaning it can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C). However, this plant grows best in temperatures ranging from 60°F (15°C) to 80°F (27°C).
Soil Requirements
Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh prefers well-draining, moist soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it does not grow well in soils that are waterlogged or have poor drainage. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 5.5 and 7.5.
Cultivation Methods
Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh, non Sims is generally propagated by seed. The seeds need to be sown in prepared beds outdoors in fall, winter, or early spring. Prepare the beds well, adding compost or well-rotted manure to enhance the organic content. The ideal soil pH range is 5.8 to 7.
Thin the plants when they are 2-3 inches tall, leaving 6-8 inches between them. They will grow successfully in full sun or partial shade. The plant will form clumps that can be divided every two to three years to maintain healthy plants.
Watering Needs
Water your Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh, non Sims plant regularly, especially during extended dry periods. Ensure that the roots are adequately moistened, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can damage or kill the plant. Mulching the base of the plant with organic matter such as compost or pine straw can help retain moisture in the soil.
Fertilization
The Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh, non Sims plant is not a heavy feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 or 5-10-5 NPK ratio once in early spring and again in mid-summer. You can also top-dress the soil around the plant with compost or well-rotted manure for a more natural approach to fertilization.
Pruning
Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh, non Sims plant does not require regular pruning, except for deadheading. Deadheading is the process of removing spent flowers from the plant. This process encourages the plant to channel energy into new growth rather than seed production. Remove any yellow or diseased foliage or stems regularly to keep the plant healthy.
Propagation of Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh
Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh is a perennial plant native to North America that is commonly propagated through several methods, which include:
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh is through seed. The seeds can be sown directly in the garden in late fall or early spring or indoors in early spring. The seeds need to be surface sown and lightly covered with soil. They need to be kept moist until they germinate, which typically takes around 10-14 days. Once the seedlings have grown two sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors into a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Division
Another propagation method for Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh is through division. This method involves dividing the plant clumps in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant. The clumps are dug up and gently separated into smaller sections, ensuring each section has healthy roots and leaves. These sections are replanted in a new location, preferably in a sunny area with well-draining soil.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings can also be done for Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh. This process involves snipping a stem from the plant in late spring or early summer and dipping it into a rooting hormone. The cutting is then planted into a container with well-draining soil and kept moist until roots are established. Once the roots have formed, the newly developed plant can be transplanted into the garden.
Disease Management
Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh is generally resistant to diseases. However, several fungal and bacterial diseases can affect the plant in certain conditions, including:
- Gray Mold: This disease is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea and can affect Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh in wet and humid conditions. The disease causes grayish-white patches on the leaves and flowers. The affected plant parts may also rot and decay. To manage gray mold, remove the affected plant parts and improve air circulation around the plant.
- Septoria Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown, irregularly shaped spots on the leaves. The spots may have a yellowish halo around them. The disease can defoliate the plant if left untreated. To manage septoria leaf spot, remove the affected plant parts and avoid overhead watering.
- Downy Mildew: This disease is caused by the fungus Plasmopara halstedii and can affect Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh in wet and humid conditions. The disease causes pale yellow spots on the upper surface of the leaves and a grayish-white growth on the undersides of the leaves. To manage downy mildew, remove the affected plant parts, improve air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Several pests can affect Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh, including:
- Leafhoppers: Leafhoppers are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing, curling, and stunted growth. They may also spread diseases. To manage leafhoppers, remove the affected plant parts and control weeds around the plant.
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing curling and distortion. They may also spread diseases. To manage aphids, remove the affected plant parts and control weeds around the plant. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can be introduced to the garden as a biological control.
- Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can feed on the leaves and flowers of Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh, causing damage and defoliation. To manage slugs and snails, handpick them in the evening when they are most active or use traps. You can also apply diatomaceous earth around the plant to deter them.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and stippling. They may also produce webs. To manage spider mites, remove the affected plant parts and improve air circulation around the plant. Predatory mites and lacewings are natural predators of spider mites and can be introduced to the garden as a biological control.
