Rudbeckia 'Cherry Brandy' - Bold, Smooth Colors All Summer Long
Rudbeckia ‘Cherry Brandy’ is a striking perennial renowned for its deep red, copper, and bronze blooms that brighten the garden from midsummer into fall. Its compact, upright habit makes it easy to plant in borders, mixed beds, or pollinator gardens. Like other Rudbeckia varieties, it thrives in full sun, tolerates drought once established, and attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. ‘Cherry Brandy’ combines long-lasting color with dependable performance, providing dramatic visual impact in any sunny landscape.
Applications in the Garden
Perfect for pollinator gardens and wildlife-friendly landscapes
Works beautifully in mixed perennial beds with purples, blues, and yellows
Excellent as a cut flower with long-lasting stems
Ideal for cottage gardens, prairie-style plantings, and massed displays
Adds bright, bold color to containers, borders, and sunny garden edges
Pairs well with coneflowers, ornamental grasses, and Russian sage
Planting Tips - Rudbeckia Plants
Plant in a full-sun location for strong stems and abundant flowering
Use well-drained soil; Rudbeckia does not tolerate standing water
Space plants 16–18 inches apart to allow airflow and prevent crowding
Water regularly until established, then moderately during summer
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Rudbeckia Hirta |
| Variety Name: | Cherry Brandy |
| Height: | 15″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 3-7 |
| Sun or Shade: | Full sun |
| Plant Classification: | Perennial |
| Planting Season: | Spring or Fall |
| Bloom Season: | Spring – Fall |
| Bloom Cycle: | Continuous |
| Bloom Duration: | 3-4 months |
| Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Moist, well draining soils |
| Water Requirements: | Average |
Troubleshooting - Rudbeckia Plants
Floppy stems: Usually caused by shade or overly rich soil; move to sunnier, leaner site
Poor blooming: Often from insufficient sunlight or overwatering
Leaf spotting: Reduce overhead watering and improve airflow
Root rot: Sign of poorly draining soil; amend or elevate planting area
Grazing damage: Protect young plants from rabbits or deer
FAQ
Q: Are Rudbeckia deer resistant?
A: Yes, they are generally deer resistant, though young plants may need temporary protection.
Q: Are Rudbeckia toxic to pets or people?
A: No, Rudbeckia is considered non-toxic and safe.
Q: Will ‘Cherry Brandy’ attract pollinators?
A: Absolutely. Bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects visit frequently.
Q: Is this plant a perennial?
A: Yes, Rudbeckia is a hardy perennial that returns each year in well-drained soil.
Q: Can it be grown in containers?
A: Yes. Its upright growth and long-lasting blooms make it suitable for large pots and patio planters.