CAMPFIRE RUDBECKIA

Amember of the sunflower family, Rudbeckia hirta—sometimes called "Black Eyed Susan" or "Brown Betty"—is common enough–some might even say too common. But just as a few dry twigs set alight have the power to transfix and mesmerize, Campfire Rudbeckia, with its stunning two-toned petals, unleashes the beauty and potential of Rudbeckia hirta.

The story of this variety begins at Blackbird Rise Farm in Palermo, Maine, where these flowers were found growing at the intersection between cultivated farm field and wild meadow. For farmers Daniel MacPhee and Corinne Wesh, the golden petals brushed with burnt sienna evoked the play of light and shadow around a flickering campfire. Recognizing the specialness of this variety, they decided to save the seed and share it with others.

Pack Art Backstory: Campfire Rudbeckia – Hudson Valley Seed Company