Great Coneflower (Rudbeckia maxima)

Great Coneflower

Also known as: Giant Coneflower, Swamp Coneflower

Great Coneflower is a highly drought-tolerant accent flower. It is very attractive to butterflies. Goldfinches enjoy its seeds. This perennial can be grown in full sun to part shade and grows up to 1.8 m tall.

Scientific classification

Species

Great Coneflower (Rudbeckia maxima)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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1.5 m to 2 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

Blue, Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow, Brown

Flower Color

Gray, Silver, Blue, Yellow, Brown

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Great Coneflower

Attributes of Great Coneflower

Growth Rate

The rapid growth rate of great Coneflower is most visible during spring, characterized by a significant increase in height and an explosion of leaves. Flowers may appear quicker than expected due to the quickening pace of development. This timely growth allows great Coneflower to take full advantage of optimal spring conditions, resulting in a robust plant by summer. Despite a tendency for slower growth in other seasons, spring sees great Coneflower achieve most of its growth potential.

Quickly Identify Great Coneflower

Large yellow daisy-like flowers with a 3-6 inch (7.5-15 cm) tall central cone.

Powdery blue-green lanceolate leaves up to 24 inches (60 cm) long.

Drooping yellow petals surrounding a 2-6 inch (5-15 cm) tall dark-brown center cone.

Chocolate brown seed heads persisting into colder months, attracting finches.

Smooth, silvery blue-green leaves resembling cabbage or collard greens, reaching 2 feet long (60 cm).

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Care Guide for Great Coneflower

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Great Coneflower flourishes in moist, well-drained environments, favoring consistent moisture while being moderately drought-tolerant. Weekly watering is ideal to maintain soil balance. Best suited for outdoor growth, great Coneflower benefits from natural rainfall, and its soil should remain evenly damp to prevent waterlogging.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, great Coneflower requires balanced fertilizers, especially with higher phosphorus during flowering. Monthly spring and summer fertilization supports foliage and blooms; use quarter-strength to avoid burning. Transition to half-strength in fall for dormancy preparation. Always water soil before application to protect roots.

Pruning: Great Coneflower features tall stems and vibrant yellow flowers. Prune in early spring to remove damaged stems and in late spring to tidy spent blooms, promoting growth and flowering. Clean tools to prevent disease, and regular pruning enhances airflow and sunlight for this sun-loving plant.

Propagation: Great Coneflower is a perennial featuring tall yellow flowers and cone-shaped centers, propagated through division. This involves separating clumps during dormancy, ensuring each section has a growth bud. Proper soil, moisture, and planting depth are essential for successful re-establishment.

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