The Snetsinger Butterfly Garden Directory

With nearly 23 different species native to North America, Rudbeckia is an essential component of any pollinator garden, and Rudbeckia fulgida is no exception. The genus name Rudbeckia honors Olof Rudbeck, teacher and mentor of Linnaeus, whose tall stature and brilliant mind were reflected by this flower, and the species name fulgida (shining) accurately reflects this shining example of a perfect early summer native flower. This sun-lover’s bright yellow-orange rays are arranged in a single row, and leaves are serrated. It is rhizomatous, spreads rapidly, and can be easily propagated by division or by seed. Cultivars of fulgida are the most frequently sold at garden centers–’Goldsturm’ is a popular choice.