Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Rudbeckia subtomentosa 'Henry Eilers'
Henry Eilers Black-Eyed Susan
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Height
- 4-5 feet tall
- Width
- 2-3 feet wide
- Flower color
- Yellow petals with a unique tubular shape
- Foliage color
- Green, finely textured with a slight fuzz
- Bloom time
- Midsummer to early fall
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Maintenance
- Low; deadheading can encourage more blooms
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 4-8
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
About this plant
Rudbeckia subtomentosa 'Henry Eilers' is a unique and eye-catching perennial known for its distinctive quilled petals that form star-like yellow blooms. Each flower features narrow, rolled petals surrounding a prominent brown cone, creating a delicate, pinwheel appearance. Blooming from midsummer to early fall, these cheerful flowers bring a bright, warm color to the garden, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Native to the prairies and open woodlands of North America, 'Henry Eilers' thrives in sunny, naturalistic settings and is well-suited to prairie or meadow-style plantings. Its sturdy stems and long bloom period make it an excellent choice for borders, mixed beds, or wildflower gardens, where it pairs beautifully with grasses and other late-season perennials. The plant's unique flower form and vibrant color provide lasting interest well into autumn, adding structure and charm to the landscape as summer fades.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Bleeding hearts · Catmint · Heucheras · Lady's mantle · Hellebores · Hardy geraniums
Design tip
Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
