Common Name: Prairie Glow Brown-Eyed Susan
Family: Asteraceae
Plant Type: Herbaceous Biennial or Short-Lived Perennial
Native Range: Cultivar of Rudbeckia triloba, native to central and eastern North America
Hardiness Zones: 4–9
Height: 3.0 to 5.0 feet
Spread: 1.5 to 2.5 feet
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer into fall (July to October in Nebraska)
Bloom Description: Masses of daisy-like flowers with burnt orange petals tipped in golden yellow and a dark central cone
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Water Needs: Medium
Soil Preference: Average to moderately rich, well-drained soil; tolerant of clay
Maintenance Level: Medium
Suggested Use: Pollinator beds, prairie gardens, cottage borders, naturalized plantings
Attracts: Butterflies, native bees, birds (especially finches in fall)
Tolerates: Drought (once established), heat, clay soils, deer
Notable Features: Vibrant multicolored petals, long bloom period, strong wildlife value
Nebraska Growing Notes:
‘Prairie Glow’ is a vibrant, upright cultivar of native Rudbeckia triloba that adds late-season color to Nebraska gardens. Its extended bloom time, from mid-summer into fall, makes it a reliable performer for pollinators and migrating Monarchs during critical weeks.
It grows well in full sun and tolerates Nebraska’s clay soils and summer heat, but may need occasional watering during prolonged dry spells, especially in central or western parts of the state. While technically a short-lived perennial or biennial, it self-seeds modestly, helping maintain a naturalized presence in well-managed beds.
Deadheading is optional, doing so can extend bloom time, but leaving seed heads into fall provides food for songbirds. Cut back in late fall or early spring.
Landscape Use:
Excellent in prairie-style gardens, pollinator beds, cottage borders, and mixed wildflower plantings. Adds warm, sunset-toned color and upright structure late in the season. Pairs well with asters, goldenrods (Solidago), ornamental grasses, and Echinacea.
Caution:
Non-toxic and wildlife-safe. May spread by seed if not deadheaded but is not aggressive. Foliage can become sparse at the base—plant among fuller, shorter species to cover lower stems.
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