Sweet Coneflower (Rudbeckia subtomentosa): Fragrant, Long-Blooming Native

Sweet Coneflower: Elegant Native with Fragrant Blooms

Rudbeckia subtomentosa is a dignified U.S. native perennial distinguished by its downy stems and leaves, and luminous clear-yellow flowers with reddish-brown centers. Blooming for over a month starting in mid-to-late summer, it brings refined beauty to borders, meadows, and naturalistic plantings. The plant forms upright clumps 3–6 feet tall and 1–3 feet wide.

Why Grow Sweet Coneflower?

• Fragrant flowers (unusual for Rudbeckia)
• Long bloom period (4+ weeks in late summer)
• Attracts butterflies and pollinators
• Native to moist meadows and open woods
• Sturdy, upright habit rarely needs staking

Growing Requirements

• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Average, slightly heavy but well-drained
• Water: Medium moisture
• Maintenance: Low

Propagation

Sow seed in cold frame in early spring, or divide established clumps in spring or fall.

Potential Issues

Aphids, powdery mildew, leaf spots, smut, rust, slugs, snails. Generally robust.

Quick Reference

Height:	3–6 ft.
Spread:	1–3 ft.
Bloom Time:	Summer (4+ weeks)
Flower Color:	Clear yellow with reddish-brown cones
Fragrance:	Yes, sweetly scented flowers
Native:	Yes (U.S.)
Uses:	Borders, meadows, cut flowers, naturalizing, roadside