Cherokee Sunset

Black-Eyed Susan

70d to harvest

Honeyed petals blaze in a warm sunset gradient—golden apricot to ember-rose—framing a velvety, inky black center that feels almost luminous against the sun. At maturity, Cherokee Sunset forms sturdy, upright clumps with crisp, daisy-like blooms and a refined, slightly satiny texture that holds its color through long displays. A standout for borders and naturalized drifts, it shines as a bold ornamental biennial/perennial that invites repeat flowering and striking contrast in every season’s palette.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 16th
Last Frost	May 25th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 25th
Harvest Begins	Aug 3rd
Harvest Ends	Aug 29th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	70
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	50
Min Night Temp (°F)	45
Harden Off (days)	7

Recommended Companions

Toto Gold Black-eyed Susan

Purple Coneflower Purple Coneflower

Rhapsody In Blue Salvia

Maya Black-eyed Susan

Rose Rhapsody Salvia

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water Cherokee Sunset Rudbeckia during the main growing phase?

During active growth, keep the top 1–2 in (2–5 cm) of soil evenly moist, then water deeply when it starts to dry out at that depth. Expect to water about 1–2 times per week depending on heat and wind, increasing frequency during hot spells. Once established, it tolerates brief drought, but prolonged dryness will reduce bloom size and vigor.

How can I tell when Cherokee Sunset Rudbeckia is ready to harvest?

For the best cut flowers, harvest when the ray petals are fully open and the central disk florets are at their peak (not tightly closed). If you’re harvesting for seed, wait until the flower heads turn dark and dry, and the central seeds look mature and easily shed when rubbed. Cut stems early in the morning for longer vase life, and refresh cuts every few days in a bucket of clean water.