Using Rain Gardens to Keep Waterways Pollution-Free

(Rudbeckia fulgida)

Descended from plants native to the eastern U.S., this showy coneflower blooms in late summer and fall. A perennial that dies back to the ground in winter, it needs plenty of room to spread as the summer progresses. Golden yellow flowers with dark centers.

Zone: 3; Hardy everywhere

Height: up to 3 feet.