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FIRST IMPRESSIONS:
Tight compact habit, and long flowering season are a bonus, as this was selected for its resistance to leaf spot. Leaves are more narrow than the species. Flowers are born on short stems from mid summer through September, with sporadic flowering until frost, providing nectar for butterflies and pollinators, and seeds for birds. Deer, dry soil and drought tolerant. Moderate salt tolerance.

HABITAT & HARDINESS: This is a cultivar and so is not found in the wild.

This cultivar is hardy in USDA Zones 3-9.

PLANT DESCRIPTION: Rudbeckia x ‘American Gold Rush’ is a stunning perennial cultivar that belongs to the daisy family (Asteraceae) and is celebrated for its vibrant golden-yellow flowers. This Black-Eyed Susan cultivar is a cross between Rudbeckia fulgida var. deamii and an unknown Rudbeckia, potentially, R. speciosa. The plant typically forms a compact clump, reaching a height of 2 to 2.5 feet with a similar spread. ‘American Gold Rush’ produces a profusion of large, daisy-like flowers with prominent dark brown to black central cones, creating a striking contrast against the bright yellow petals. Blooming from midsummer through fall, this cultivar adds a burst of color to garden borders, meadows, and pollinator-friendly landscapes. The robust and resilient nature of ‘American Gold Rush’ makes it a favorite among gardeners seeking a long-lasting and low-maintenance perennial.

CULTURAL & MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Rudbeckia x ‘American Gold Rush’ is adaptable to a variety of growing conditions and thrives in well-drained soils with a preference for full sun. This cultivar is known for its tolerance to a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils. Once established, it exhibits good drought tolerance, making it suitable for gardens with water-wise practices.

Regular deadheading of spent flowers can promote continuous blooming and extend the overall flowering period. The sturdy, upright stems of ‘American Gold Rush’ eliminate the need for staking, and the plant maintains a compact and tidy form throughout the growing season. This cultivar is generally resistant to pests and diseases, contributing to its reputation as a reliable and easy-to-care-for garden choice. With its adaptability and minimal maintenance requirements, ‘American Gold Rush’ is a versatile perennial that adds a vibrant touch to various garden settings.

LANDSCAPE USES: Bird Garden; Butterfly Garden; Pollinator Garden; Cottage Garden; Cut/Dried Flower Garden; Naturalizing; Include this cultivar in Perennial borders, cut flower gardens, wildlife gardens, container gardens, cottage gardens, mass plantings, rock gardens, drought-tolerant gardens, and erosion control situations.

COMPANION & UNDERSTUDY PLANTS: Try pairing this cultivar with Andropogon gerardii; Phlox paniculata; Schizachyrium scoparium; Liatris aspera; Achillea millifolium ‘Terracotta’; Agastache ‘Blue Fortune’; Rudbeckia fulgida v fulgida; Rudbeckia fulgida v. deamii; Rudbeckia fulgida ‘Goldsturm’ are all suitable substitutes.

TRIVIA:  Perennial Plant of the Year 2023, by the Perennial Plant Association.

  And 2020 All American Selections National Winner.