If there was a so called “workhorse” perennial in the late summer into fall garden, it would have to be the Perennial Plant Association’s 1999 Perennial Plant of the Year Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii ‘Goldsturm’. Beginning in late August, these so-called Black-Eyed Susans, begin to burst into bloom atop stiff, upright stems that are perfect for cutting or leaving on the plant as the dried stems and remaining seedheads are not only striking to look at in the winter landscape, they provide food to various birds and other wildlife.