Gloriosa Daisy (Rudbeckia hirta) is a stunning heirloom variety known for its bold, daisy-like blooms in vibrant shades of gold, bronze, orange, and red, often with dark brown centers. This easy-to-grow biennial (or short-lived perennial) thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for beginner and experienced gardeners alike. Gloriosa Daisies are versatile, adding beauty to borders, cottage gardens, and wildflower meadows. Their long-lasting blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making them a fantastic addition to eco-friendly landscapes. These showy flowers bloom from midsummer into fall, providing long-lasting color and charm.
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All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
- Heirloom
- Organic
- Non-GMO
- Open Pollinated
- Untreated
- US Grown
- Growing instructions included
- Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
Sustainable Packaging & Shipping:
- NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in-house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
- All orders are carefully packed and shipped with tracking via USPS First Class (or Priority, if selected) in padded ECOENCLOSE recycled and reusable mailers, or recycled boxes to protect your items in transit.
- Most orders ship out the same or next business day! Please note that this time may be extended during peak season.
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Common Names: Gloriosa Daisy, Black-Eyed Susan
Latin Name: Rudbeckia hirta
Type: Flower
Life Cycle: Biennial or Short-Lived Perennial
USDA Zones: 3 - 9
Stratification: Not Required
Germination Ease: Easy
Sunlight: Full Sun
Moisture: Moderate
Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil
Height: 24-36 inches
Spread: 12-18 inches
Color: Gold, bronze, orange, red, often with dark brown centers
Bloom Season: Midsummer through Fall
Companion Plants: Carrots, Tomatoes, Lettuce (Gloriosa Daisies attract pollinators and beneficial insects that improve productivity in these vegetable crops.)
Climate Adaptability: Thrives in a variety of climates, tolerating both heat and cold.
~ Sowing ~
When to Sow Outside:
Sow directly outdoors in early spring after the last frost or in late summer for blooms the following year.
When to Start Inside:
Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost for early blooms. Transplant seedlings when soil is workable.
Days to Emerge:
10-15 days
Seed Depth:
Surface-sow seeds; do not cover, as light aids germination.
Seed Spacing:
Space seeds 12-18 inches apart.
Hardiness:
Gloriosa Daisies are frost-tolerant once established and can survive in colder climates.
~ Growing ~
Soil:
Gloriosa Daisies thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. They can tolerate poor soils but perform best with added organic matter for richer blooms.
Watering:
Water regularly during early growth. Once established, Gloriosa Daisies are somewhat drought-tolerant but will bloom best with consistent moisture.
Light and Temperature:
Grow in full sun for the best blooms. These daisies are heat-tolerant and thrive in a variety of temperatures, making them suitable for hot summers and cooler fall conditions.
Maintenance:
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering throughout the season. They may reseed, providing new blooms the following year.
Container Friendly:
Can be grown in containers as long as there is enough depth for root development. Ensure the container has proper drainage.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest:
Harvest flowers when fully open for fresh arrangements, or leave them on the plant for extended garden beauty.
How to Harvest:
Cut stems at the base with sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Drying and Storing:
Gloriosa Daisies can be air-dried for dried flower arrangements. Store dried flowers in a cool, dark place.
Edible Use:
Not typically edible, but the flowers are often used in ornamental displays.
~ Seed Saving ~
Seed Collection:
Allow seed heads to dry on the plant. Once dry, collect seeds by hand before they drop.
Seed Cleaning:
Remove seeds from the dried heads and clean off any excess plant debris.
Seed Storage:
Store seeds in a cool, dry place. Seeds remain viable for 1-2 years if properly stored.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators:
Gloriosa Daisies are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making them a perfect addition to any pollinator garden.
Origin:
Native to North America, Gloriosa Daisies have been a beloved garden flower for generations due to their showy blooms and easy growth.
Nomenclature:
The genus *Rudbeckia* is named after Olof Rudbeck, a Swedish botanist and mentor to Carl Linnaeus. The common name “Black-Eyed Susan” refers to the plant’s dark brown center.
History:
Gloriosa Daisies have long been cultivated in gardens for their vibrant color and long-lasting blooms. They were also used in folk medicine by Native Americans.
Potential Toxicity:
Non-toxic to humans and animals.
Climate Adaptability:
Gloriosa Daisies are highly adaptable and can tolerate both cold winters and hot summers, making them a versatile choice for many regions.
