
American Gold Rush Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta 'American Gold Rush'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Average; drought tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
A robust perennial with bright golden-yellow flowers that attract pollinators. Distinguished by its compact, mounded habit and exceptional resistance to Septoria leaf spot, a common disease for other Black-eyed Susans.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain soil moisture during root development.
- Ensure plants receive full sun for optimal growth and flowering.
- Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate.
Pro Tip
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, enhancing growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry periods 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Apply compost annually to enrich soil
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t disturb roots during flowering
- Refrain from using harsh chemical pesticides
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
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
American Gold Rush Black-eyed Susan questions
What zones can American Gold Rush Black-eyed Susan grow in?
American Gold Rush 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 American Gold Rush Black-eyed Susan deer resistant?
Yes — American Gold Rush Black-eyed Susan is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does American Gold Rush Black-eyed Susan bloom?
American Gold Rush Black-eyed Susan typically blooms in mid-summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does American Gold Rush Black-eyed Susan need full sun?
American Gold Rush Black-eyed Susan does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is American Gold Rush Black-eyed Susan drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), American Gold Rush Black-eyed Susan handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Rudbeckia to compare

Autumn Colors Mix Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta 'Autumn Colors Mix'

Goldsturm Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm'

Chim Chiminee Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta 'Chim Chiminee'

Cherokee Sunset Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta 'Cherokee Sunset'

Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta

Giant Coneflower
Rudbeckia maxima
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Grow American Gold Rush 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.
