Water: Low to medium water needs; tolerates occasional drought once established
Soil: Prefers well-drained loamy or clay soils; tolerates poor soils and seasonal flooding
Height: 3-7 feet (flowering stalks can reach up to 9 feet)
Bloom Time: Late spring to mid-summer
Lifespan: Perennial
Growth Habit: Upright and clump-forming
Additional Information: Giant Coneflower is a striking native perennial known for its towering flower stalks topped with golden-yellow petals that droop from a tall, dark central cone. Its large, powdery blue-green basal leaves make it unique among other Rudbeckia species and add visual interest even when not in bloom. This plant thrives in moist, open areas such as prairies, wetlands, and rain gardens but is also drought-tolerant once established. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while its seeds provide food for birds in the fall. With its bold height and foliage, Rudbeckia maxima makes a dramatic focal point in native plant gardens and prairie restorations.
