Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta 'Metropolitan Folding Tuteur'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Dry to medium
Humidity
Tolerates a wide range
Lifespan
Annual, biennial, or short-lived perennial
Native To
Eastern and Central North America
Toxicity
Low toxicity; can cause skin irritation in humans and mild stomach upset in pets if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Bright, daisy-like yellow flowers with a dark center; good for borders and cutting gardens. Features coarse, hairy leaves and stems. Often grown as a biennial or short-lived perennial, it self-seeds readily to persist in the garden.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged during establishment.
- Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart once they are 2 inches tall.
- Stake taller varieties to support growth and prevent wind damage.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 6 weeks during the growing season.
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun and ensure good air circulation for healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
- Remove dead or faded flowers to encourage more blooms
- Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to rejuvenate the plant
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not plant in dense shade, as it needs full sun
- Refrain from using excessive fertilizers that promote leggy growth
- Avoid disturbing roots when dividing
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Black-eyed Susan questions
What zones can Black-eyed Susan grow in?
Black-eyed Susan is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Black-eyed Susan deer resistant?
Yes — Black-eyed Susan is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Black-eyed Susan bloom?
Black-eyed Susan typically blooms in summer to fall through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Black-eyed Susan need full sun?
Black-eyed Susan does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Black-eyed Susan drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Black-eyed Susan handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta
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Grow Black-eyed Susan with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
