White Rudbeckia
White rudbeckia is an unusual and elegant variety of the popular coneflower that deserves a place in every flower garden. With its pure white petals and characteristic dark centre, this perennial flower creates a sophisticated contrast to the more common yellow and orange rudbeckia varieties.
A robust and easy-to-grow perennial
White rudbeckia belongs to the daisy family and shares many of the excellent qualities that have made coneflowers so beloved amongst gardening enthusiasts. This delightful flower is renowned for its hardiness and ability to bloom abundantly from midsummer through late summer, often extending into early autumn.
Flowering and appearance
The white petals surround a dark, almost black centre, creating a dramatic contrast. The flowers can reach up to 8-10 centimetres in diameter and sit on sturdy stems that grow to a height of 60-90 centimetres. The leaves are green, somewhat rough to the touch, and have a lance-like shape that complements the elegant appearance of the flowers.
Planting and positioning
White rudbeckia thrives best in a sunny to partially shaded spot with well-drained soil. The flower is adaptable and tolerates most soil types, but prefers soil that is somewhat moist but not waterlogged. Plant in spring or early autumn, spacing plants approximately 40-50 centimetres apart to give them sufficient room to develop.
Care during the growing season
During the active growing season, white rudbeckia requires regular but moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent rot. A light application of fertiliser in spring with compost or a balanced garden fertiliser provides the flower with the nutrients it needs for abundant blooming.
Overwintering and perennial care
As a perennial, white rudbeckia returns year after year with proper care. In autumn, you can leave the final flowers in place to provide seeds for birds, or cut the plant back to ground level. A light covering of leaves or compost over winter protects the roots in colder climates.
Garden combinations
The white colour makes this rudbeckia an excellent companion to both warm and cool colours in the border. Combine with purple asters, pink phlox or deep blue delphiniums for beautiful colour contrasts. It also works beautifully as a backdrop to shorter-growing flowers at the front of the border.
