Gloriosa Daisy Care

Description

• The vivid yellow petals of the gloriosa daisy (Rudbeckia hirta) are offset by rich brown centers and starburst markings of reddish-brown coloring. The 5- to 9-inch flowers sit on upright stalks reaching 3 feet high. This daisylike plant grows from seed on its own is dead blooms are left on the stalk, eventually filling in a garden area. Some dwarf varieties may grow just 1 foot tall. It blooms from June to September or as late as winter frost, adding bright color to spots that are otherwise lacking color in those seasons.

Planting

• Choose a soil spot in full sun with well-draining soil. Provide sufficient space for the daisy to grow and self-propagate. It also tolerates partial shade. Plant as early as the soil warms up in spring, or as late as fall. Sow indoors six to eight weeks before last. Ideal germinating temperature is 70 to 75 F. Plants will germinate in seven to 10 days at these temperatures. Rich, well-drained soil is best, but this plant tolerates a range of conditions, including drought and low fertility. Expect seeds to begin flowering the second year after sowing. Flower heads may last into wintertime.

Varieties

• Varieties of gloriosa daisy differ by color and growth habits. Chim Chinese exhibits shades of yellow, orange and red and blooms from late summer until frost . Becky Mixed has orange, yellow or bicolored flowers and blooms from midsummer until freezing temperatures arive. Irish Eyes offers light yellow flowers with green centers. Choose Rustic Dwarfs Mixed for a dwarf variety with large, showy flowers.

Uses

• The gloriosa daisy is popular for drying. As a cut flower, it has a long life and can persist for one to two weeks. To prolong its life in a vase, cut it fresh, split the stems and leave in cold water with added sugar. To promote blooming and prevent self-sowing, remove dead blossoms. Plant this flower as a wildflower along roadsides and in open fields. Grow in flower gardens or in flower mixtures.