Rudbeckia glaucescens, Waxy Coneflower

A showy perennial coneflower that loves moist locations and full sun, waxy coneflower is a good native equivalent for commonly planted eastern species such as its close relative, black-eyed susan. Waxy coneflower is endemic to the Klamath-Siskiyou Mountains. Although it typically grows in seeps and along streams on serpentine soil in its native habitat, it takes well to the garden environment as long as regular water is available. The large, wide, basal leaves have a bluish waxy powder on them when the plant is young, hence the name waxy coneflower. From the basal leaves arise long, 3′-4′ stems topped with cheerful 2″-3″ yellow coneflowers. Very similar in appearance to California coneflower (Rudbeckia californica), which doesn’t have the bluish waxy powder on the leaves when young. Waxy coneflower prefers full sun and a visible location where it can shine and put on a vibrant display! Blooms July-September, providing important late-season nectar and pollen for pollinators. Waxy coneflower is highly attractive to many pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and moths. Dead heading helps prolong bloom time.