For cut flower production, the standard-bearer is the species Rudbeckia hirta and its numerous cultivars. This species is characterized by its sturdy, hairy stems and classic daisy-like flowers with a prominent dark brown to black central cone. Modern hybrids have been selected specifically for the cut flower market, offering exceptional vase life, often lasting 7 to 10 days. Varieties like 'Indian Summer' produce massive, golden-yellow flowers up to 6-9 inches across on strong, tall stems reaching 3-4 feet, making a dramatic statement in arrangements. 'Cherokee Sunset' is another excellent hirta variety, prized for its fully double and semi-double flowers in a stunning range of hues from yellow and orange to rich bronzes and mahogany, adding texture and depth to bouquets.
While often thought of as a landscape plant, certain cultivars of Rudbeckia fulgida are outstanding for cutting due to their incredible profusion of blooms and strong constitution. The most celebrated variety is 'Goldsturm'. It produces a multitude of smaller, 2-3 inch wide flowers with bright golden-yellow rays and a dark brown central cone. Its key advantage is the sheer number of blooms per plant, providing a continuous supply of cut flowers from midsummer into fall. The stems are robust and the flowers hold up remarkably well in a vase. For a smaller, more delicate option, Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Little Goldstar' offers the same prolific nature on a compact plant, perfect for smaller-scale cutting gardens.
A unique and valuable species for cut flowers is Rudbeckia subtomentosa, commonly known as Sweet Black-eyed Susan. As the name implies, this species offers a light, sweet fragrance—a rare and delightful trait among Rudbeckias. The variety 'Henry Eilers' is the premier choice for cutting. It is distinguished by its unusual quilled, or rolled, ray florets that create a captivating, tubular effect around the central cone. This unique texture adds immense interest to floral designs. The plants are tall (3-5 feet) and well-branched, producing numerous flowers on long, sturdy stems that are ideal for harvesting.
For designers seeking a more informal, whimsical element, Rudbeckia triloba, or Brown-eyed Susan, is an impeccable choice. This short-lived perennial or biennial is not grown for massive individual blooms but for its incredible branching habit and profusion of smaller, 1-2 inch flowers. Each plant becomes a cloud of hundreds of cheerful yellow daisies with dark brown centers. When cut, these stems provide a fantastic "filler" element in arrangements, adding volume, a light texture, and a pop of color that complements larger focal flowers. Its branching structure allows for a single stem to fill out an entire bouquet, making it an extremely productive and useful cut flower.
