American Gold Rush Black-Eyed Susan
Rudbeckia x 'American Gold Rush', Rudbeckia 'American Gold Rush'Compact and naturally dome-shaped, American Gold Rush Black-Eyed Susan is covered in bright golden-yellow flowers from midsummer into fall. Each daisy-like bloom features arching yellow petals surrounding a dark chocolate-brown cone, with a subtle reddish halo adding extra depth near the center. Narrow, hairy green leaves and stems give the foliage a slightly silvery cast, creating an attractive contrast beneath the abundant flowers. The fine hairs also contribute to this cultivar’s notable resistance to Septoria leaf spot, helping the foliage remain attractive through humid summer weather.
Growing about 22 to 27 inches tall and up to 40 inches wide when given room, American Gold Rush develops a broad, compact mound with a dense, well-branched appearance. Its generous spread makes it especially effective when mass planted, creating a bold sweep of color through borders and larger garden spaces. The long-lasting flowers also perform beautifully in mixed perennial beds and cutting gardens, while the compact habit allows the plant to make an impact without becoming overly tall. Large containers can also accommodate their broad form and extend their sunny color to patios and entryways.
American Gold Rush grows best in full sun and average, evenly moist, well-drained soil, although established plants tolerate periods of drought and dry soil. Regular watering during establishment encourages a strong root system, after which supplemental watering is generally needed only during prolonged dry weather. Avoid overly rich soil and excessive fertilization, which can encourage weaker growth. Removing spent flowers can help maintain a tidy appearance and encourage continued blooming. Divide established clumps every four to five years as needed to maintain vigor and provide adequate room for the plant’s naturally broad habit.
Care Instructions:
Planting: Plant in full sun in average, well-drained soil.
Soil: Average, evenly moist, well-drained soil.
Watering: Water regularly during establishment; provide supplemental water during prolonged dry periods.
Fertilizing: Avoid excessive fertilization or overly rich soil.
Pruning: Remove spent flowers as needed and cut back old growth before new spring growth emerges.
Spacing: Plant 3′ – 4′ (ft) apart.
Maintenance: Divide or reseed as needed to maintain the planting.
American Gold Rush combines a long season of bright color with a compact habit and improved disease resistance, making it a standout choice for sunny perennial gardens. The golden flowers provide strong visual impact from midsummer into fall while also supporting butterflies and other pollinators. Its tolerance for heat, humidity, drought, and dry soil expands its usefulness in challenging sunny locations, while deer resistance adds another practical advantage. Whether planted in a broad drift, incorporated into a mixed border, or used for cut flowers, this award-winning Black-Eyed Susan brings reliable color, texture, and seasonal interest to the landscape.
Landscape Solutions
- Adds drought and dry-soil tolerance to hot, sunny landscapes.
- Supports butterflies and pollinators with a long season of flowering.
