How to Grow Black-eyed Susan 'Goldsturm'
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Black-eyed Susan 'Goldsturm'
Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm'
flower'Goldsturm' is a vibrant perennial cultivar prized for its mass displays of bright golden-yellow flowers with dark brown-black centers. This robust variety is one of the most reliable and long-blooming rudbeckias, producing abundant flowers from mid-summer through fall. It's a garden staple valued for its easy care, drought tolerance once established, and exceptional cut flower production.
When should you plant Black-eyed Susan 'Goldsturm' in your zone?
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Example Black-eyed Susan 'Goldsturm' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Black-eyed Susan 'Goldsturm'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Black-eyed Susan 'Goldsturm' blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with exceptional performance in zones 4-8
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Get my Black-eyed Susan 'Goldsturm' timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny leafy rosettes with 2-4 true leaves; very delicate appearance
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light to prevent leggy growth. Maintain 70°F soil temperature for best germination (10-14 days).
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksBushy mound of narrow, lance-shaped leaves expanding rapidly; no flowers yet
Harden off transplants gradually before planting outdoors. Plant after last frost. Pinch back growing tips in early summer if taller varieties to encourage bushier growth. Water during dry spells.
Bud Formation & Early Bloom
2-3 weeksFlower buds appear at stem tips; first flowers open with characteristic golden petals and dark centers
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Stake taller stems if needed (usually 24-36 inches). Apply organic mulch around base, keeping it away from stems.
Peak Flowering
8-12 weeksPlant covered in bright yellow 2-3 inch flowers; dense, showy display continues for weeks
Continue deadheading for maximum bloom production. Cut flowers for arrangements regularly. Water during extreme heat or drought. Fertilize monthly with balanced flower fertilizer if desired.
Late Season & Senescence
Flowers persist into fall; eventually brown seedheads develop as flowering slows with cooler temperatures
Leave some flowers for seed heads to attract birds and provide winter interest, or continue deadheading. Cut back dead foliage to ground level in late fall or early spring. Divide crowded plants every 3-4 years in spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Ensure adequate air circulation; avoid overhead watering in evening; apply sulfur dust or neem oil if severe; resistant varieties available
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Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation; avoid wetting foliage; apply fungicide if necessary
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Hand-pick in early morning; apply neem oil; use Japanese beetle traps away from plants; encourage parasitic wasps
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Spray with water to dislodge; increase humidity; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; ensure adequate irrigation
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and
Hand-pick at dusk; beer traps; copper barriers; encourage ground beetles and toads; mulch away from stems
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryThe petals are edible and mildly sweet with a slight citrusy flavor, making them suitable for garnishing salads, desserts, and beverages. Use only ornamental varieties grown without pesticides. [source]
Traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalRudbeckia has been used in traditional Native American and folk medicine to support immune function and wound healing. The root and plant material contain compounds like cichoric acid that may have anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Cut and dried flowers
HouseholdExcellent for fresh cut flower arrangements and particularly valued for dried arrangements, as flowers hold color and form well when dried. Long stems provide easy arranging. [source]
Pollinator and bird habitat
WildlifeAbundant nectar and pollen attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators throughout the season. Late-season seedheads provide valuable food for finches and other seed-eating birds in fall and winter. [source]
Drying and preservation
CraftFlowers and seedheads dry beautifully and retain their form and color for months, making them ideal for pressed flower crafts, wreaths, and potpourri projects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in early morning when buds are just opening; remove lower leaves below water line; change water every 2-3 days for longest vase life (10-14 days). For seed collection, allow flowers to dry completely on plant in late fall, then cut and harvest seedheads. Seeds can be collected and saved for next season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 'Goldsturm' was named Perennial Plant of the Year in 1999 by the Perennial Plant Association, recognizing its exceptional reliability and garden performance across diverse growing conditions.
- 🌱 Black-eyed Susans were named after a character in an 18th-century folk song, and the genus Rudbeckia was named to honor Swedish botanist Olof Rudbeck the Elder and his son, a tradition in Linnaean nomenclature.
- 🌱 A single established 'Goldsturm' plant can produce 100+ flowers in a season and is practically impossible to kill once settled, making it one of the most forgiving perennials for beginning gardeners and xeriscaping projects.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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