Rudbeckia subtomentosa 'Loofahsa Wheaten Gold' AGM

Sweet Coneflower Asteraceae

A superb late-flowering selection of Rudbeckia subtomentosa, forming tall, elegant clumps of clean green foliage and producing a profusion of large, clear golden-yellow flowers with chocolate-brown centres. The narrow, pointed petals are characteristically spaced, slightly twisted and gently undulating, giving the flowers a more refined appearance than the typical coneflower. Flowering from August into autumn, it is excellent for prairie planting, the back of a border and as a cut flower. The RHS trial recorded plants to around 1.7m tall and 1.3m wide. 

Breeder & introduction: ‘Loofahsa Wheaten Gold’ was bred by Anthony Brooks, Head Gardener at Elton Hall, Shropshire, and named for his Wheaten Terrier dogs. It was introduced by the Shropshire Group in 2005 through the Hardy Plant Society Conservation Scheme. The cultivar was trialled by the RHS in its Perennial Yellow Daisies trial (1998–2002), where it was recommended for an AGM, subsequently receiving the RHS Award of Garden Merit. 

Grow in full sun or partial shade in a fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. Although tolerant of some dry periods once established, it performs best with good moisture during the growing season. The tall, somewhat willowy stems may benefit from support in exposed gardens. 

Flowering: August–October
Hardiness: H6, approximately –20 to –15°C
Height: 1.5–1.7m
Spread: 0.6–1.3m

Please note: depending on the time of year, some plants may be cut back before dispatch. This is normal horticultural practice and helps ensure plants arrive in good condition and establish strongly after planting.