Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Gloriosa Daisy






Botanical name: Rudbeckia hirta "Gloriosa" Mix (Asteraceae)
Other name:

Description
Gloriosa daisies are a strain of black-eyed Susan that was developed in the United States, and is now grown world-wide. The center of the is brown and surrounded by petals in shades of yellow, gold and mahogany. The six-inch blossoms available in double or single forms. Plants are erect and thick stemmed, and grow two to three feet tall. Gloriosa daisies are actually biennials or short-lived perennials, but are often grown as annuals because they bloom the first year.

How to grow
Sow the seeds outdoors any time in the fall or as early in the spring as the ground can be cultivated. Simply compress the seed into bare sunny soil in spring, summer or fall. Takes two years to bloom from seed. Plants transplant well and should be spaced 12 to 15 inches apart. They reseed themselves readily, so watch for seedlings in subsequent years.

Gloriosa daisies are superb, long-lasting cut flowers and cutting encourages the plants to send out more blossoms. They grow well in almost any soil, and look great in beds or borders, and in full sun or part shade.

Height: 2-3 feet
Germination: 7-30 days
Optimum soil temperature for germination: 70F
Sowing depth: 1/16"
Blooming period: June-September
USDA Zone: 3-10

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