Origin
Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa (C.L. Boynt. & Beadle) Cronq. is a native plant to North America and is commonly found in the eastern United States, from Texas to Maine. It thrives in lightly shaded or partially shaded areas, and can often be found along the edges of forests, meadows, and roadsides.
Common Names
This particular species of Rudbeckia is commonly known as "Black-eyed Susan," "Orange Coneflower," "Green-headed Coneflower," or "Brown-eyed Susan." The name "Black-eyed Susan" was derived from the dark-brown center or "eye" of the daisy-like flower.
Uses
Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa has several uses in traditional medicine. Various parts of the plant, such as the roots and leaves, have been used by Native American and early European settlers to treat a variety of ailments including colds, flu, infections, and snakebites.
In addition to its medical uses, "Black-eyed Susan" is also used in gardens and landscape designs. The plant is a popular choice for its bright and cheerful flowers, and is often used in borders, meadows, and wildflower gardens.
General Appearance
The Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa plant is a herbaceous perennial that typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) and has an equal spread. The leaves are dark green, lance-shaped, and slightly hairy. The flowers are orange-yellow with a dark-brown center disk and appear in late summer or early fall. The plant's stems are sturdy and reliably upright, making it an excellent choice for border plantings or mixed beds.
Growth Conditions for Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa (C.L. Boynt. & Beadle) Cronq.
Light Requirements: Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa (C.L. Boynt. & Beadle) Cronq. typically thrives in partial shade to full sun. While the plant can tolerate full shade for short periods, it prefers bright indirect sunlight to promote optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements: The optimal temperature for Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa (C.L. Boynt. & Beadle) Cronq. growth is between 60-70°F. However, the plant can tolerate cold temperatures and can survive in climates that experience frost, making it a hardy plant species.
Soil Requirements: Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa (C.L. Boynt. & Beadle) Cronq. thrives in well-draining, moist soil with a neutral pH level. However, the plant can adapt to different soil types and will also grow in sand, clay, and loamy soils. It can grow in both dry and damp soils.
Water Requirements: Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa (C.L. Boynt. & Beadle) Cronq. prefers moist soil and does well in regions with moderate rainfall. However, the plant can tolerate drought conditions and will continue to grow with minimal watering.
Fertilizer Requirements: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but a once-a-year dose of slow-release fertilizer during the growing season may help promote optimal growth.
Propagation: Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa (C.L. Boynt. & Beadle) Cronq. can be propagated through division or seed. However, division is the preferred method, as it allows the new plants to establish a stronger root system before being transplanted into their permanent location.
Cultivation methods for Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa
Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa thrives in well-draining soil and full sunlight. It can tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be reduced compared to those planted in full sun. The ideal soil pH for this plant ranges from 6.0 to 7.5.
Plant Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa in the spring or autumn, spacing each plant at least 12 inches apart. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball and backfill it with soil, tamping it down gently to remove any air pockets.
Watering needs for Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa
Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply and thoroughly once a week, rather than frequently giving the plant a light shower. Once established, this plant is drought tolerant and can survive for longer periods without watering.
Fertilizing Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa
Apply a balanced fertilizer once at the beginning of the growing season to enhance growth and promote flowering. Alternatively, incorporate compost before planting to provide nutrients throughout the growing season. Avoid overfertilization, as too much fertilizer can lead to weak, spindly growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa
Deadhead Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa regularly to remove spent flowers and to encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Cut the stem back to the nearest node after flowering, but stop deadheading by late summer to allow the plant to set seeds for the following year. In the spring, cut back any dead or faded foliage to promote healthy growth and tidy appearance.
Propagating Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa
Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa is commonly known as the black-eyed Susan or orange coneflower. It is a herbaceous perennial that is native to the eastern United States. Propagation of Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa can be achieved through various means such as seeds, division, and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest way to propagate Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa is through seeds. The plant produces seed heads that can be harvested when mature and dry. The seeds can be planted directly in the ground or in seed trays indoors. The best time to plant the seeds is in the spring, after the last frost. To ensure a good germination rate, it is recommended to stratify the seeds by refrigerating them for a few weeks before planting. The seeds should be kept consistently moist until they germinate, which can take up to three weeks.
Propagation by Division
Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa can also be propagated via division. This method involves digging up the plant and splitting it into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has some healthy roots and foliage. Division is best done in the spring, just as new growth is beginning to emerge. The new sections can be replanted in compost-enriched soil in a new location or shared with friends and family.
Propagation by Cuttings
Finally, Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa can be propagated through stem cuttings. This method is best done in the summer when the plant is in full growth. Choose a stem that is healthy and has no flowers or buds. Using a sterilized blade, cut a section of the stem that is about four inches long. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist potting mix and keep it in a warm, bright location. Within a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots and be ready for transplanting.
Disease Management
The main diseases that can affect Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa include:
- Septoria Leaf Spot: This disease causes circular spots with gray centers and dark edges to appear on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove all infected plant material and ensure good air circulation by spacing plants apart and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides may also be effective.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To manage this disease, ensure plants have good air circulation and are not overcrowded. Fungicidal sprays may also be effective.
- Botrytis Blight: This disease causes brown spots on the leaves and flowers and can cause the plant to rot. To manage this disease, remove all infected plant material and ensure good air circulation around the plants. Fungicides may also be effective.
Pest Management
The main pests that can affect Rudbeckia fulgida Ait. var. umbrosa include:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause leaf distortion and stunted growth. To manage this pest, spray the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and webbing on the leaves. To manage this pest, spray the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers. To manage this pest, handpick and remove them from the plants and apply a layer of organic slug bait around the base of the plants.
