Cherry Brandy is a new color for Rudbeckia, known among seed growers. I knew nothing about it until I happened to come across the newly-grown small plants at the nursery I frequented.

I purchased 2 plants in early July, quickly planted them in a sunny spot and waited 2 weeks before the first flower appeared. The flowers from one plant were in rich maroon with darker markings in the centers.

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The other plant produced flowers that were more brown than red.

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The plants are now about 10 -12 inches in height. I do not expect them to grow vigorously like the yellow rudbeckia. "The original plants will only last a season or two. The plants self-seed readily ... " - according to this website.

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The blooming period is from summer to fall.

It is a low maintenance plant.

The flowers can be used as cut fresh flowers, as well as dried flowers.

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