The Perennial Plant Association has been in existence since 1990 and each year selects a plant as its Perennial Plant of the Year. The criteria for this selection process include the plants adaptability to most growing zones, ease of propagation, ornamental value, and resistance to insects and disease.

The choice for 1999 is Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldstrum' [1]. This beautiful two foot high black eyed Susan has 3-4 inch deep yellow flowers with black center cones. It is a long living plant which thrives well in full sun or part shade.

One of the previous winners of this prestigious award is Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' [2]. A purple coneflower with wider and less reflexed petals, and a bright orange or red central cone. These plants thrive in average soil under hot and dry conditions, and are very hardy in a cold climate.

A winner in 1995, Perovskia, commonly called "Russian Sage" [3], grows four feet in height and as much in width, making it an excellent choice for the back of the border. The fine textured aromatic foliage bears violet blue flowers from early summer to fall.

Other Perennial plant of the Year awards go to Salvia 'May Night', Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red', Astilbe 'Sprite', and Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbean'.

These plants have been tested for their reliability and hardiness, and would make wonderful additions to any perennial garden. Look for them in your local garden center.