Black-Eyed Susan - Rudbeckia hirta

Black Eyed Susan takes its name from the black or dark brown flower head in its center. Bright yellow petals that resemble a daisy make this flower an eye-catching addition to any flower garden needing a pop of color. Black-Eyed Susans are rapidly growing flowers that grow in clumps. Seeds or seedlings should be planted outdoors after the last frost and will bloom throughout the summer and into early autumn. Seeds can also be started indoors in early March and transplanted after the fear of frost has passed. Black-Eyed Susans are native flowers to the United States. Historically, they were harvested by a variety of Native American tribes for medical purposes.

Black Eyed Susan survive in a variety of soils, but their location should be well-drained. Black-Eyed Susans make excellent cut flowers for arrangements and vases. Left to bloom outside, they will attract a variety of butterflies, bees, and birds to your garden. Deadheading spent blossoms will encourage additional blooms throughout the season. Black Eyed Susan is typically considered an annual plant, but they self-seed freely and will often return to your garden through self-seeding. The flowers are covered in small hairs, giving them a bristled of course texture. Black Eyed Susan is a terrific choice for first-time gardeners; the flowers are easily found at most nurseries within their hardiness zones, require nearly no watering, do not need special soil maintenance, withstand high heat, and have no significant bug or disease problems. Black-Eyed Susans make a beautiful addition to low maintenance wildflower gardens or in manicured gardens and landscaping. The flowers are especially prevalent in Maryland, where they are the state flower.

Black Eyed Susan Sunflower Family

The black eye Susan is part of the elite sunflower family and carries many of its original characteristics. The bright yellow petals and dark centers are the first noticeable similarities. It is that center that prompted its name.

Names
The most common name for this plant is black-eyed Susan, but it is also known around the world as:
Brown-eyed Susan
Gloriosa Daisy
Brown Betty
English bull’s eye
Golden Jerusalem
Yellow Daisy
Poor-land daisy
Yellow ox-eye daisy

The Black Eyed Susan names may differ, but the flowers all add to the joy of summer.

Annuals and Perennials
The cycle of the flower may continue depending on the variety. Most drop their seeds in the fall and regrow in the spring. It is possible to get a few years extra from an annual, but for long-lasting enjoyment, a perennial type is best.

Size and Color
The substantial proportion of the black-eyed Susan helps it to stand out in a crowd. They range from 12-39 inches tall and 12-18 inches in width. The stems branch out with flower heads on the end that can measure up to 4 inches in diameter. Colors are often red, brown, and orange.

Planting
Planting the black-eyed Susan should be done when the soil begins to warm up. The dirt should be moist and designed to drain well. They are sun lovers and should be placed where they get full exposure if possible. The black-eyed Susan is a hearty plant that thrives in optimal conditions but can also survive more challenging environments. Their beautiful flowers bring color and joy to any garden.

Black Eyed Susan