Comments

Orange Coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida) is quite variable in appearance from one site to another. Consequently, this species has been a source of taxonomic problems that continues to this day. Some authorities classify Orange Coneflower as a single species consisting of several varieties, while others regard it as a complex of several closely-related species. Here, Sullivant's Coneflower is treated as a variety of Orange Coneflower. Sullivant's Coneflower can be distinguished from these other varieties by its larger flowerheads (typically 2-3' across) and the shape of its leaves. Other varieties of Rudbeckia fulgida that may be encountered in Illinois include