Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii ‘Goldsturm’
Overview
Uses: Perennial borders, mass plantings, pollinator gardens, naturalized areas, and cottage-style landscapes.
Benefits: Bright golden-yellow blooms with dark brown centers provide strong late-season color. Long flowering period from midsummer into early fall with a reliable, upright habit.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–9
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Sun
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Upright, Clumping — sturdy stems rise above basal foliage.
Bloom Color: Golden Yellow
Mature Height: 24–36 inches
Mature Width: 18–24 inches
Bloom Season: Midsummer to Early Fall
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
A late-summer staple that brings bold color and structure when many early bloomers begin to fade.
Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii ‘Goldsturm’ is one of the most dependable Black-Eyed Susans available, valued for its clear golden petals and contrasting dark centers. The blooms rise above clumping green foliage and hold their color steadily through summer heat.
This selection forms upright, well-behaved clumps that fit easily into borders or mass plantings. It pairs beautifully with ornamental grasses and other sun-loving perennials, creating strong seasonal contrast. Butterflies and beneficial insects frequently visit the open flower centers.
Care
‘Goldsturm’ Black-Eyed Susan Care
Plant in Full Sun for best flowering. Partial Sun is tolerated but may result in fewer blooms.
Grow in well-drained soil. While adaptable to many soil types, consistent drainage is important, particularly in winter.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, plants tolerate short dry periods.
Apply a balanced slow release fertilizer in early spring to encourage steady growth and flowering.
Remove spent blooms to extend flowering and reduce self-seeding. Cut plants back in late fall or early spring to tidy the garden. Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor.
Container Growing: Use a container with proper drainage and quality potting mix. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering than those in the ground. Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is ‘Goldsturm’ Black-Eyed Susan for Sale Online?
Plants are shipped in greenhouse-grade grow pots and are well-rooted and established for transplanting. Each plant is appropriately sized for its container at the time of shipping. If you have specific sizing questions, please contact us.
How Large Does ‘Goldsturm’ Black-Eyed Susan Grow?
This variety typically matures to 24–36 inches tall and spreads 18–24 inches wide, forming upright, bushy clumps.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
This plant is most commonly known as Black-Eyed Susan. It may also occasionally be referred to as Orange Coneflower.
Is ‘Goldsturm’ good for pollinator gardens?
Yes. The open flower centers are highly attractive to butterflies and other beneficial insects, making it a reliable addition to pollinator-focused plantings and sunny Native Plants of North America style gardens.
Is this plant deer resistant?
While no plant is completely deer-proof, Black-Eyed Susan is generally less appealing to deer than many other flowering plants. You can explore additional options in our collection of Deer-Resistant Perennials and Grasses.
Where does ‘Goldsturm’ perform best in the landscape?
Its upright habit and bold color make it especially effective in mass plantings, mid-border placements, and mixed perennial beds where long-lasting summer color is needed.
