Rudbeckia ‘American Gold Rush’ 400

Latin Name: Rudbeckia 'American Gold Rush'

Common Name: American Gold Rush Black-Eyed Susan

Zones: 4–9

Height & Spread: 22–26 inches tall, spreading 24–44 inches wide

Descriptive Features: Named the Perennial Plant Association's 2023 Perennial Plant of the Year, this interspecific hybrid black-eyed Susan bred by Brent Horvath forms a naturally compact, domed clump. Narrow, hairy, gray-green foliage — noticeably different from the classic 'Goldsturm' — gives this cultivar exceptional resistance to Septoria leaf spot, a fungal disease that plagues most Rudbeckias, staying blemish-free even in wet, humid conditions. From July through September, the plant is smothered in bright golden-yellow, daisy-like flowers with prominent black centers and slightly arched petals, with some color persisting until frost. Sturdy, upright stems eliminate the need for staking. Drought-tolerant once established, deer- and rabbit-resistant, and a strong draw for bees, butterflies, and songbirds. An excellent, low-maintenance choice for borders, mass plantings, containers, and pollinator gardens in full sun to part shade.