Rudbeckia Goldsturm and Rudbeckia fulgida are two popular varieties of the Rudbeckia genus, commonly known as black-eyed Susans. While they may appear similar at first glance, there are some distinct differences between the two.
1. Vigor and Pest Resistance:
Rudbeckia fulgida ‘Goldsturm’ is often preferred over Rudbeckia fulgida var. fulgida because it is more vigorous and resistant to pests. This means that it will grow more robustly and is less likely to be affected by common garden pests, such as aphids or spider mites. Having a more vigorous plant can be advantageous, especially in areas with harsh growing conditions or where pest control may be challenging.
2. Blooming Time:
Another notable difference is the blooming time. Rudbeckia fulgida var. fulgida typically blooms earlier in the season, while Rudbeckia Goldsturm blooms later and for a longer period. Goldsturm can extend the bloom time by around six weeks compared to its counterpart. This extended blooming period can be a desirable trait, as it ensures a longer display of vibrant yellow flowers in the garden.
3. Leaf Characteristics:
When it comes to foliage, Rudbeckia fulgida var. fulgida has narrower, glossy leaves compared to some other Rudbeckia species. This distinction can help differentiate it from similar plants in the garden. Additionally, the upper leaves of Rudbeckia fulgida var. fulgida are uniformly sized, adding to its distinctive appearance.
It’s important to note that individual plants within a species can exhibit variations, and these characteristics may vary slightly depending on growing conditions and specific cultivars. However, the above distinctions generally hold true for Rudbeckia Goldsturm and Rudbeckia fulgida var. fulgida.
In my personal experience, I have found Rudbeckia Goldsturm to be a reliable and showy plant in my garden. Its vigorous growth and extended blooming period have made it a standout performer, attracting pollinators and adding a beautiful splash of yellow to my landscape. On the other hand, Rudbeckia fulgida var. fulgida has its charm with its narrower leaves and early bloom time, making it a great choice for creating contrast and variety in a garden bed.
To summarize, the main differences between Rudbeckia Goldsturm and fulgida lie in their vigor, pest resistance, blooming time, and leaf characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and specific garden requirements.
