Rudbeckia Autumn Forest

The rudbeckia for those who want something richer than gold. Autumn Forest produces massive, velvety blooms in burnt orange, mahogany, and copper — the colours of a woodland in October, carried on strong branching stems that stand up to autumnal winds without staking.

Robust and weather-resistant with thick waxy petals, it flowers prolifically from late summer through to the first frosts. The dried seed heads provide vital winter food for goldfinches. Listed on the RHS Plants for Pollinators.

• Rudbeckia hirta 'Autumn Forest' — Half-Hardy Annual (H3)
• Height: 50–60cm | Flowers: August–first frost
• Sow indoors February–April at 20°C; surface sow
• Full sun; rich, moisture-retentive soil — space 30cm apart
• Leave seed heads for goldfinches over winter
• RHS Plants for Pollinators listed

Grow it with Echinacea Purple Coneflower for a warm autumnal combination of mahogany and magenta-pink that is as good for wildlife as it is for the eye.