I once saw Rudbeckia growing and blooming out of a crack in the cement of an overpass, so to say that it is drought resistant and heat tolerant is quite the understatement! It attracts butterflies and goldfinches, who love the seed. They are native to North Carolina. They are very versatile and will grow in full or part sun. They require no special nutrients and are great for cut flower arrangements. It makes the list of deer resistant flowers and they don’t mind moist soil. 

This photo was taken by a customer of mine. Goldfinches are love the seed so I leave the spent blooms for them.

Cherry Brandy Rudbeckia

This variety is new for me this year, Cherry Brandy is as easy to grow as other cultivars, but only gets about 2' in height.