THE BEST OF THE BUNCH.

These tried-and-true trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals and edible plants are singled out by garden professionals in the hopes that they'll find their way into more landscapes, because of the benefits that they will bring. Each year, the program shines a light on one tree, shrub, perennial and annual that can succeed here with little input, making for successful and environmentally friendly gardens. 23Amarillo Gold green-eyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta Amarillo Gold GOLD MEDAL AND NOVELTY Fleuroselect judges were impressed by the blossom size, early, endless bloom and uniformity of flower, habit and color of this rudbeckia cultivar. THEODORE KLEIN PLANT AWARDS Each year a panel of Kentucky green-industry professionals adds a handful of exceptional trees, shrubs and perennials to their list of excellent garden plants for the state's climate. [Extracted from the article]