'Campfire' is a named cultivar of the native black-eyed Susan, and the difference is the flower. Where the straight species is plain golden-orange, 'Campfire' opens in warm bicolour tones: gold ray petals flushed with mahogany and russet around the dark cone, every bloom slightly different. It flowers from midsummer to frost and makes an excellent cut flower, lasting a week or more in water.
It grows like the species: full sun, average to poor soil that drains, and little water once established. Sow in spring after last frost, or start indoors six weeks earlier for first-year bloom; it is usually grown as an annual or short-lived perennial and self-sows where it is happy. Space plants 6 to 12 inches apart and pinch once when young for more stems.
The cone is the point for wildlife. Native bees and butterflies work the flowers, and if you leave the seed heads standing through fall, goldfinches strip them. It is a Hudson Valley Seed introduction, and the cleanest way to grow it true is from their seed.
Ecoregions:Northern ForestsNorthwestern Forested MountainsEastern Temperate ForestsGreat PlainsTropical Wet Forests
Powdery mildew
White or grey powdery coating on leaves - usually starting on older growth in humid conditions or when nights cool.
Improve air circulation by thinning plants. Apply neem oil or potassium bicarbonate spray at first sign. Avoid overhead watering.