Both of these carefully selected perennials are classic cottage garden plants, easy to grow and perfect for attracting pollinators, making them great for wildlife. Together, they form a charming combination of vibrant colour and texture.
Hollyhock 'Nigra' features tall spires of maroon-black flowers with pale centers, making a bold statement in the garden and in floral arrangements. This hardy perennial offers dramatic contrast with lighter blooms.
Height: 200cm (79"). Spread: 60cm (24").
Rudbeckia 'Goldsturm' an RHS award-winning variety, boasts brilliant golden daisies that bloom for weeks atop compact foliage. Its long-lasting flowers provide vibrant colour throughout the season.
Height: 60cm (24"). Spread: 60cm (24").
Plant height and spread is seasonal therefore we list by pot size rather than a defined plant size. The height and spread of the plant delivered will vary depending on the season, meaning arrival images are an indication only.
Growing Information
These bareroot plants are lifted from the nursery field when dormant, and sent to you in late autumn or spring for planting. They often look dead on arrival, but they are just resting in the dormant period and will establish quickly for a strong start in the garden come spring.
Plant bareroots at the earliest opportunity following delivery. If conditions prevent immediate planting, set roughly into loose soil or a pot of compost (‘heeling in’) to protect the roots. The growth points of most bare root perennials should be set about an inch below the soil surface.
Plant out Hollyhocks in sunny borders in fertile, well drained soil. Choose a position that is sheltered from strong winds. Space hollyhock plants at least 60cm (24") apart to improve air circulation and help prevent hollyhock rust.
Feed and water regularly until hollyhocks are fully established. Support their tall stems with bamboo canes as the flower spikes develop. In autumn, cut back the old foliage and faded hollyhock flower stems, and apply a mulch of well rotted manure or garden compost to the base of the plant.
Grow rudbeckia plants in sun or semi shade. Rudbeckia enjoys a fertile, preferably heavy soil that is rich in organic matter and well drained. Coneflowers resent drought and dislike soils that dry out in summer.
Feed and water rudbeckia plants regularly. Deadhead faded rudbeckia flowers to encourage more blooms to be produced. Cut plants down to the crown at the end of the season and cover with a dry mulch of straw or wood chippings to protect from winter extremes.
