This 5-7' tall rudbeckia has a basal clump of huge, paddle-shaped, bluish-green leaves from which rise in summer sturdy, sparsely-leaved flower stalks bearing yellow-rayed coneflowers. Each coneflower has slightly drooping rays and tall dark brown central cones ranging from 2-6” high. This summer bloomer prefers open wooded areas, moist prairies and pastures.  Flower stalks may be left in place after bloom so goldfinches can enjoy the seed. 
Direct sow barely covering in fall.  Cold stratification aids in germinaton if sown in spring or indoors. Will self-seed.