Cutleaf Coneflower (Sochan)
Rudbeckia laciniata
Seeds per pack ~ 50 (Packed for 2025)
The Cutleaf Coneflower, scientifically known as Rudbeckia laciniata, is a herbaceous perennial in the Asteraceae family, native to North America, it has been introduced around the world for ornamental purposes. . Also known as Sochan Rudbeckia laciniata, is a perennial plant that is notable for its edible qualities and cultural significance, particularly to the Cherokee people. It is a favorite in gardens and naturalized areas for its striking yellow flowers and tall, graceful growth. The young shoots and leaves of Sochan are harvested in early spring and are considered a delicacy. These parts of the plant can be quickly sautéed and enjoyed as a leafy green. As the plant matures, its flavor intensifies, and the stems become tougher, making only the leaves suitable for consumption. The leaves should be cut into bite-sized pieces to avoid textural issues when they become tougher.
USDA Zones 3–9, making it a hardy plant in various climates.
Key Features: Grows 3 to 9 feet tall and spreads about 2 to 4 feet wide, depending on conditions. Its height makes it an excellent choice for back borders or as a focal point.
The plant produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers with drooping petals (ray florets) and a greenish central cone (disk florets). Blooming occurs from mid-summer to early fall, providing a cheerful display. The leaves are deeply divided into lobes, giving them a lacy, "cut-leaf" appearance, which lends the plant its common name. The foliage remains attractive even when the plant is not in bloom. Found naturally in moist meadows, prairies, and along stream banks. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers rich, well-drained, moist soils.
Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade. It tolerates more shade than many other Rudbeckias. Performs best in moist, fertile, well-draining soil, but it is adaptable to a range of soil types. Requires regular watering, especially in dry spells, to mimic its natural wetland habitats.
Benefits and Uses: Its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to wildlife gardens. Once established, it is relatively easy to care for and tolerant of occasional drought. Often used along streams or slopes due to its ability to stabilize soil with its deep root system. Great for wildflower gardens or prairie-style plantings, adding height and texture.
Culinary Uses: Sochan has been traditionally used as a potherb, meaning it is usually cooked rather than eaten raw. This cooking process is believed to potentially remove toxins, although there's little evidence of their presence. In the culinary world, Sochan pairs well with strong flavors, such as pork, due to its robust aster-like taste. Classic recipes often combine Sochan with meat, such as in dishes with venison bacon or lamb. It is a versatile green that can adapt to various cooking methods and flavor pairings, making it a cherished ingredient in traditional and modern cuisine alike.
The young shoots and leaves of Sochan are harvested in early spring and are considered a delicacy. These parts of the plant can be quickly sautéed and enjoyed as a leafy green. As the plant matures, its flavor intensifies, and the stems become tougher, making only the leaves suitable for consumption. The leaves should be cut into bite-sized pieces to avoid textural issues when they become tougher.
Rudbeckia laciniata is also widely cultivated for ornamental purposes, and several cultivars have been developed, such as 'Herbstsonne' ("Autumn Sun") and 'Starcadia Razzle Dazzle', both of which have received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. The plant's ability to spread via underground stems makes it suitable for large sites, but it may require management to prevent it from becoming invasive. The plant is somewhat toxic to livestock, so it's handled with care in areas where animals graze.
Potential Challenges: Due to its height, the stems may need staking in windy areas or if grown in overly rich soils. While not aggressively invasive, it can spread through rhizomes if conditions are favorable, requiring occasional control in small garden spaces. In humid conditions, it may develop powdery mildew, but this rarely harms the plant's overall health.
