Marmalade

Black-eyed Susan

90d to harvest

Sun-warmed petals blaze in rich marmalade-gold, radiating outward from a velvety, near-black center that holds the eye like a lantern in late summer. Marmalade forms sturdy clumps with a crisp, daisy-like texture—bold, slightly tousled rays over deep, green foliage—making it as striking in the garden as it is in fresh bouquets. Grow Marmalade for long-lasting color through the season, where its classic black “eye” and generous blooms bring instant cheer to borders and pollinator paths.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 4th
Last Frost	May 13th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 13th
Harvest Begins	Aug 11th
Harvest Ends	Sep 27th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	90
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	40
Harden Off (days)	7

Recommended Companions

Rose Rhapsody Salvia

Cherry Brandy Coneflower

Munstead Lavender

Provence Lavender

Rhapsody In Blue Salvia

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Rudbeckia hirta (marmalade), and how can I treat it?

Rudbeckia hirta commonly gets powdery mildew in humid weather, showing as a white, dusty coating on leaves. Remove heavily infected leaves early, improve airflow by spacing plants, and water at the base to keep foliage dry. If it’s spreading, spray an approved powdery mildew fungicide and repeat as directed on the label (avoid spraying in peak sun to prevent leaf burn).

How do I know when to harvest Rudbeckia hirta (marmalade) flowers?

Harvest when the ray florets (the yellow/orange “petals”) are fully open and the center disk florets are just starting to look set rather than faded. For cut flowers, snip blooms in the morning when petals are crisp and before midday heat wilts them. If you’re harvesting seed, wait until the flower heads turn brown and dry, then collect when they feel papery and the seeds release easily.