Cherokee Sunset

Black-Eyed Susan

Zone 9a Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Cherokee Sunset

🌱 70d to harvest Upright

Honeyed petals blaze in a warm sunset gradient—golden apricot to ember-rose—framing a velvety, inky black center that feels almos…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Dec 26th
Last Frost	Mar 6th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Mar 6th
Harvest Begins	May 15th
Harvest Ends	Nov 26th

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

Indian Summer Black-eyed Susan

Marmalade Black-eyed Susan

Rose Rhapsody Salvia

Moreno Black-eyed Susan

Black-Eyed Susan Black-Eyed Susan

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Rudbeckia hirta (Cherokee Sunset), and how do I treat it?

Rudbeckia hirta is prone to powdery mildew and leaf spot, especially in humid weather and crowded plantings. Water at the base (not over the foliage), space plants with good airflow, and remove heavily infected leaves early. If mildew is persistent, spray with a labeled horticultural fungicide and repeat according to the label to protect new growth.

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.

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.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 50°F and nights stay above 45°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

For best establishment, sow/raise seedlings in cool conditions and transplant after spring warmth has settled, then deadhead to encourage repeat blooming the first season in many climates.