2000 ASCFG Fresh Cut Flower of the Year
The Fresh Cut Flower of the Year for 2000 is Rudbeckia hirta 'Indian Summer'. 'Indian Summer' has large 6 to 9-inch wide golden-yellow flowers with dark brown centers. The mostly single flowers are carried atop 2.5 to 3.5 foot tall plants and are much larger than other cultivars of Rudbeckia hirta. Stems are strong and easily cut. While technically a biennial or perennial, Indian Summer is best grown as an annual. Plants are readily propagated from seed and will flower within 10-14 weeks of sowing.
While the flower period is long (4-5 weeks), multiple plantings may be useful in the south for season-long harvest. Plants are vigorous and will grown in a wide range of soils. Although generally insect and disease-free, flower petals may be damaged by grasshoppers. Postharvest life is good, generally 7-10 days. Rudbeckia 'Indian Summer' was also selected as an All-America Winner in 1995.
Contact ASCFG at 440-774-2887 or www.ascfg.org for more information.