The big, bright yellow daisy-like flowers with their striking black centres are a glorious plant for the late summer garden. They are like an extension of the summer sunshine and are so easy to grow that they are all round good garden cheer.

GROWING
Likes a sunny spot, although it can cope with a little shade. Very easy – just stake if they start to look untidy. Don’t cut down in the autumn, but leave the flower heads for some winter interest. See here for ideas on using seedheads. Loved by the beneficial insects like bees.

FLOWERS
August to October

COMPANIONS
Asters are a delightful companion, the yellow and lavender flowers really look great together. Black-eyed Susan is also often grown with grasses like Calamagrostis and Miscanthus as well as the magenta Coneflower for a more earthy, late summer moving into autumn feel.