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Physical description: Golden Coneflower is a rhizomatous perennial with
large golden yellow flowers with brown centers. The leaves of
this plant are dark green, hairy, and have prominent veins. The
basal leaves are about 5 inches long and half as wide, oblong
to lance-shaped, while the stem leaves are toothed and smaller.
The flowerheads are 3.5 to 5 inches across, and has 1 to 2 inch
long, bright, golden yellow petals surrounding a velvety, dark
brown center. It blooms in late summer to fall.
Optimal growing conditions: Although Golden Coneflower adapts to a wide variety
of soil conditions, the optimal condition for this plant is moderately
fertile, somewhat moist, heavy but well-drained soil that does
not dry out, in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates clay
soil and mild droughts.
Susceptibility to pests and diseases:
Slugs and snails feed on young
plants, and aphids, powdery mildew, rust, smut, and leaf spots
can occur.
Use: This
is an excellent plant for borders or beddings in butterfly gardens,
meadow gardens, or naturalized areas. Golden Coneflower provides
seeds for birds in the winter and nectar for butterflies. It
makes a good combination with Veronica "Goodness
Grows", Lady's Mantle, or ornamental grasses.
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