Quick answer: Sweet coneflower (Rudbeckia subtomentosa) is native to 11 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 04 Nov 2026.
Photo: Unknown photographer, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Moist |
| Soil | Moist soils |
| Bloom | Bloom Jul-Sep |
| Height | Up to 6 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Special value to native bees, conspicuous flowers |
Stems and leaves can cause skin irritation in humans
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (04 Nov 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 04 Nov 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Sweet coneflower
Where is Sweet coneflower native?
Sweet coneflower (Rudbeckia subtomentosa) is native to 11 states across the Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Sweet coneflower bloom?
Sweet coneflower blooms Jul-Sep. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Sweet coneflower need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Moist. Soil: Moist soils. Mature height: Up to 6 ft tall.
Is Sweet coneflower good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Special value to native bees, conspicuous flowers.
Is Sweet coneflower deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Sweet coneflower is deer-resistant and tolerates shade.
Is Sweet coneflower toxic?
Stems and leaves can cause skin irritation in humans.
Where can I buy real Sweet coneflower seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 04 Nov 2026. Look for the scientific name Rudbeckia subtomentosa on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Sweet coneflower.
- Prairie ironweed Vernonia fasciculata
- Prairie onion Allium stellatum
- Prairie tickseed Coreopsis palmata
- Longbract wild indigo (cream false indigo) Baptisia bracteata var. leucophaea
- Showy goldenrod Solidago speciosa
- Inland sea oats Chasmanthium latifolium
Also listed under
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