Rudbeckia fulgida Little Goldstar

Black-eyed Susan

Little Goldstar offers gardeners all the charm of traditional Black-eyed Susans in a more manageable size. This compact variety brings bright colour and pollinator-friendly blooms to smaller gardens and containers.

Physical Characteristics

Little Goldstar grows to a neat height of 40-45cm (16-18 inches) with a similar spread. It forms a dense, well-branched mound of dark green foliage. The flowers measure 6-7cm (2.5-3 inches) across, featuring golden yellow petals surrounding dark brown central cones.

Growth Habit and Performance

This variety stands out for its sturdy stems that rarely need staking. The plant produces an abundance of blooms from July through October. Each plant can display up to 80 flowers during peak season, creating a spectacular golden display.

Growing Requirements

Little Goldstar thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade in UK gardens. It performs best with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The plant shows excellent tolerance to temperatures between -22°C and 30°C (-11°F to 86°F).

Soil and Moisture Needs

This adaptable plant grows well in most garden soils. It prefers consistently moist, well-draining conditions but shows good drought tolerance once established. Adding organic matter helps maintain ideal growing conditions.

Container Growing

Little Goldstar excels in containers, making it perfect for patios and small spaces. Choose pots at least 30cm (12 inches) deep with good drainage holes. Use high-quality multipurpose compost mixed with some grit for drainage.

Seasonal Interest

The main show begins in mid-summer when the first golden blooms appear. Flowering continues through autumn, often until the first frosts. Even after flowering, the seed heads provide winter interest and food for birds.

Maintenance Tips

Regular deadheading extends the blooming period and prevents unwanted self-seeding. Cut back stems to 10cm (4 inches) above ground level in late winter. Division every three to four years keeps plants vigorous.

Companion Planting

Little Goldstar pairs beautifully with other late-summer perennials. It works particularly well alongside purple flowering Salvia, ornamental grasses, Verbena bonariensis, Sedums, and Japanese Anemones. These combinations create stunning colour contrasts and textural interest.

Wildlife Value

This variety attracts numerous pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The seed heads provide food for finches and other small birds during winter months. Deer and rabbits typically avoid these plants.

Disease Resistance

Little Goldstar shows good resistance to common plant diseases. Occasional problems with powdery mildew or leaf spot might occur in humid conditions. Good air circulation helps prevent these issues.

Uses in the Garden

This versatile plant suits many garden situations, from front of border plantings to container displays. It works beautifully in rock gardens, cottage garden schemes, urban gardens, and cut flower gardens.

Advantages Over Larger Varieties

Little Goldstar’s compact size means no flopping or staking needed, making it perfect for small gardens. Its excellent container performance, dense flowering habit, and strong stems that resist weather damage add to its appeal.

Care Through the Seasons

Spring brings the time to remove remaining dead growth and apply compost around plants. Summer requires regular watering during dry spells and deadheading to encourage more blooms. In autumn, continue deadheading until flowering ends, then consider keeping seedheads for winter interest. Winter maintenance simply involves cutting back dead growth before new growth begins.

Design Tips

Create rhythm in garden designs by planting Little Goldstar in groups. Its compact size works well at the front of borders or as a transition plant between taller perennials and ground covers. The bright yellow flowers create striking contrasts with purple, blue, and deep red companion plants.

Conclusion

Rudbeckia fulgida Little Goldstar offers gardeners a perfectly sized version of the classic Black-eyed Susan. Its compact growth, abundant blooms, and easy maintenance make it ideal for modern gardens. For those seeking a well-behaved, floriferous perennial that attracts wildlife and provides long-lasting colour, Little Goldstar proves an excellent choice

Check out the RHS page on Rudbeckia fulgida Little Goldstar here.

For more information on Perennials please click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does ‘Little Goldstar’ differ from other Rudbeckias?

A: This compact variety grows to just 40-45cm (16-18 inches) tall. It produces more flowers per plant than larger varieties, creating a dense, dome-shaped display.

Q: When does it flower?

A: ‘Little Goldstar’ blooms from July through October. The bright golden-yellow flowers appear in abundance, providing reliable late-summer and autumn colour.

Q: What growing conditions does it prefer?

A: Plant in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil. ‘Little Goldstar’ tolerates most soil types but thrives in rich, moisture-retentive ground.

Q: How hardy is this compact variety?

A: This tough plant withstands temperatures down to -22°C (-11°F). It shows excellent winter hardiness throughout the UK and maintains a neat habit.

Q: Does it need regular maintenance?

A: ‘Little Goldstar’ needs minimal care. Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms, and cut back old stems in late winter before new growth appears.

Q: Can I grow it in containers?

A: Yes, its compact size makes it perfect for containers. Use pots at least 30cm (12 inches) deep with good drainage holes and quality compost.

Q: How do I use it in garden design?

A: Plant in groups at the front of borders or in containers. It pairs beautifully with shorter ornamental grasses, salvias, and other late-flowering perennials.

Q: What wildlife does it attract?

A: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Leave the seedheads standing through winter to provide food for small birds.

Q: How do I divide established plants?

A: Divide clumps every 2-3 years in spring to maintain vigour. Each division should have healthy roots and several growth points.

Q: Are there any common problems?

A: ‘Little Goldstar’ shows good resistance to pests and diseases. Watch for slug damage to young growth in spring, and ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew.