Rudbeckia missouriensis
Rudbeckia missouriensis is a native perennial prized for its graceful branching stems and cheerful golden yellow flowers that bloom for an extended period from midsummer into fall. Its airy habit brings movement and natural character to sunny landscapes while providing lasting color and valuable support for pollinators.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average to dry well drained soil
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This species is native to the central United States including Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. It is well adapted to prairies and open grasslands where it contributes seasonal color and supports a wide range of native wildlife.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts a variety of butterflies including Monarchs, Painted Ladies, and sulphurs which visit the bright flowers for nectar throughout the bloom season.
Bees
- Provides pollen and nectar for native bees, bumblebees, and other pollinators that frequent the open daisy like blooms.
Birds
- Seed heads provide a valuable food source for goldfinches and other songbirds later in the season.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow adequate air circulation and room for its naturally branching habit.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for native plantings, prairie gardens, pollinator borders, and naturalized landscapes where its long bloom period and informal appearance can be fully appreciated.
Companion Plants
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Provides upright texture and seasonal color that complements the golden flowers.
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Extends pollinator activity and creates a classic prairie combination.
- Sporobolus heterolepis (Prairie Dropseed) - Adds fine textured foliage and graceful movement around the flowering stems.
- Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed) - Offers vibrant orange blooms and additional support for pollinators.
- Liatris spicata (Blazing Star) - Contributes vertical purple flower spikes that contrast beautifully with the yellow daisies.