Black-Eyed Susan Kelvedon Star

Black-Eyed Susan Kelvedon Star: variety and characteristics

Black-Eyed Susan Kelvedon Star (Rudbeckia hirta) is an annual flower of the Daisy family (Asteraceae). Bred from the native species, “Kelvedon Star” is a bicoloured black-eyed Susan with masses and masses of 7cm flowers.

The spreading petals are a deep, rich golden colour, each marked with a brown streak near the base.

Seen together, these markings create a perfect star on each flower.

Rudbeckia (“black-eyed Susan”) is a sunny flower with yellow-orange heads and a dark centre — tough, good for bees and excellent for cutting.

Key features

• Measured germination rate of the batch: 85%
• Seeds per packet: 382–518 pcs (0.3 g)
• Seed origin: China
• Sowing: September and October; seedlings
• Flowering: June – August
• Position: sunny spot

When to sow Black-Eyed Susan Kelvedon Star

Black-Eyed Susan Kelvedon Star seeds are sown in September and October. The plants flower in June – August. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Black-Eyed Susan Kelvedon Star

• Sowing method: seedlings
• Depth: on the surface (germinates in light)
• Spacing: 20–30 cm
• Germination: 10–20 days at 18–22 °C
• Position: sunny spot

Choose a spot that receives full sun or partial shade. Black-eyed Susans thrive in bright sunlight but can tolerate some shade. Make sure the area has well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the plants. Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds, stones or debris. Black-eyed Susans prefer loamy soil but are adaptable and can grow in various soil types. If your soil is heavy, clay or sandy, you can improve it by incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility. You can plant black-eyed Susans from seed or as young plants raised in nurseries. Both methods can give beautiful results. It is best to plant this perennial in early autumn so that it adapts to its new environment, although it can also be planted in mid spring. Plant many black-eyed Susan plants and you will have plenty of flowers to cut — these flowers lure a dozen pollinators, such as bees, hummingbirds and butterflies.

The seeds germinate in light. Sow for transplants in March or directly in April–May.

Flowering and uses

Flowers from July to October.

Frequently asked questions

When should Black-Eyed Susan Kelvedon Star be sown?

The recommended sowing months are September and October. Sowing method: seedlings.

How many seeds are in the packet?

The packet contains 382–518 seeds, pack size 0.3 g.

What is the germination rate of the seeds?

The measured germination rate of this batch is 85%. The test was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions; in the field, emergence depends on soil, temperature and moisture.