Cutleaf coneflower (Rudbeckia laciniata)

Also known as: Thimbleweed, Sochan

The Cutleaf Coneflower (Rudbeckia laciniata) resembles the Sunflower and Black-eyed Susan but is distinguished by its greenish-yellow center and back-tilted rays. This plant is a crucial food source for honeybees, butterflies, and songbirds. Additionally, its early spring leaves can be boiled to create tasty greens.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Cutleaf coneflower

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

50 cm to 2 m

Spread

60 cm to 1.2 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

7 cm to 10 cm

Flower Color

Yellow Green

Images of Cutleaf coneflower

Quickly Identify Cutleaf coneflower

Towering height range of 3 to 10 feet (91 to 305 cm).

Distinctive pinnate leaves with drooping tendency.

Bright yellow flowers with drooping petals and green central cone.

Dry achene fruit with elongated dark pappus for dispersal.

Smooth, light green stem that branches and reaches 1.5-6 feet (0.5-1.8 meters).

Scientific Classification of Cutleaf coneflower

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Family

Daisy

Genus

Coneflowers

Species

Cutleaf coneflower

Planting and Growing of Cutleaf coneflower

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Cutleaf coneflower?

Rudbeckia laciniata requires a moderate amount of water. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water until the soil is saturated but excess water drains away, indicating sufficient hydration.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Cutleaf coneflower? ›

What should I do if my Cutleaf coneflower is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Cutleaf coneflower? ›

How to save an overwatered Cutleaf coneflower? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Cutleaf coneflower?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Rudbeckia laciniata prefers full sun to partial sun exposure, ideally receiving 6 to 8 hours. Proper lighting supports vibrant blooms and sturdy, healthy growth.

How much sun does it need? ›

What if full sun is unavailable? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Cutleaf coneflower?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

For optimal growth, Rudbeckia laciniata thrives in a temperature range between 60°F to 75°F. This range supports healthy photosynthesis and prevents stress, ensuring the plant achieves full potential in blooming and resilience against pests.

What Soil is Best for Cutleaf coneflower?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam, Clay soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Rudbeckia laciniata thrives in soil that drains well, preventing root rot which can occur in overly saturated soil. This drainage balances moisture retention and air circulation, fostering healthy root systems. Incorporating organic matter into the soil enhances nutrient content, essential for the healthy growth of Rudbeckia laciniata. Compost or well-rotted manure can improve the soil structure and fertility. While well-drained soil is crucial, maintaining some moisture retention helps Rudbeckia laciniata to thrive, especially during dry spells. Consistent moisture levels support robust bloom production. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Cutleaf coneflower?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Rudbeckia laciniata, each liquid fertilizer application should involve diluting to half the recommended strength of a balanced fertilizer. Use approximately one tablespoon per gallon of water for optimal nutrient absorption. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Cutleaf coneflower?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by removing any dead or diseased stems near the base to improve air circulation. Trim to shape the plant, maintaining a balanced appearance, and cut just above a leaf node to encourage new growth. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Regularly deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season. This encourages the plant to produce more blooms and prevents it from going to seed. Simply snip off the flowers just below the flower head with a pair of garden scissors. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Cutleaf coneflower plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Begin with filling seed trays with a fine potting mix. Scatter Rudbeckia laciniata seeds evenly over the soil surface and cover lightly with more soil. Water gently to avoid displacing the seeds. Maintain a warm environment to encourage germination.

Carefully dig up mature Rudbeckia laciniata plants in early spring. Use a sharp knife or garden trowel to divide the plant into clumps, ensuring each clump has roots attached. Replant the divisions into prepared garden soil or pots.

Once seedlings have grown strong in seed trays, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. Transplant them into a suitable garden location with full sun and well-drained soil when they are robust enough.

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How to Repot Cutleaf coneflower plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2 to 3 years

Rudbeckia laciniata usually needs repotting when its roots begin to outgrow the pot, often visible when they start poking out of the drainage holes. Other signs include slowed growth and water sitting on the surface after watering instead of soaking in. The best time to repot is during active growth in spring or early summer.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A pot that is too large can cause the soil to retain too much moisture, which can lead to root rot. Opting for a breathable material like terracotta can also help regulate moisture levels.

A well-drained loamy soil is ideal for Rudbeckia laciniata. This type of soil maintains adequate moisture while preventing excess water retention, which can lead to root diseases. Adding organic matter to the mix will further enhance soil health, providing necessary nutrients for vigorous growth.

Toxicity of Cutleaf coneflower

Is Cutleaf coneflower toxic to cat?

The plant species commonly referred to as cutleaf coneflower has been recognized as toxic to felines. Even minimal ingestion can result in unintentional poisoning if a cat consumes any parts of the cutleaf coneflower, as the whole plant possesses toxic characteristics. Following exposure, a cat may show signs of physical distress, which can appear as illness or discomfort, raising significant concerns for their wellbeing. Pet owners should vigilantly monitor their animals to prevent ingestion and ensure that these plants are positioned safely out of reach. Should there be any suspicion of a cat ingesting cutleaf coneflower, it is vital to seek prompt veterinary attention to manage and alleviate the cat's condition.

Is Cutleaf coneflower toxic to dog?

The cutleaf coneflower is identified as toxic to dogs. Canines may unintentionally consume portions of this plant, resulting in poisoning. Every part of the plant, including the leaves, stems, flowers, and roots, contains harmful substances that can pose a risk to dogs if ingested. Following consumption of cutleaf coneflower, dogs may show signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or more severe symptoms depending on the quantity consumed. It is imperative for dog owners to closely supervise their pets and restrict their access to this plant. Should there be any suspicion of poisoning from cutleaf coneflower, obtaining immediate veterinary assistance is vital to safeguard the health and well-being of the affected dog.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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