
Prairie Glow Black-Eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta 'Prairie Glow'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
28 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers low to moderate humidity
Lifespan
Biennial or short-lived perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Rudbeckia hirta is a biennial or short-lived perennial, often grown as an annual. It forms a basal rosette of leaves and sends up erect, hairy stems with daisy-like flowerheads featuring a prominent dark central cone. 'Prairie Glow' is distinguished by its striking 3-inch wide, daisy-like flowers with vibrant orange-red rays tipped in bright yellow, surrounding a dark brown central cone. It has a branching habit and blooms profusely.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring.
- Water regularly until established, about 2 weeks.
- Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding.
- Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer.
- Deadhead spent flowers for prolonged blooming.
- Divide clumps every 3 years in early spring or fall.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil for best blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead to encourage continuous flowering
- Divide every 3 years for vigorous growth
- Apply mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Neglect deadheading
- Plant in shady areas
- Use heavy clay soil without amendment
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| 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
Prairie Glow Black-Eyed Susan questions
What zones can Prairie Glow Black-Eyed Susan grow in?
Prairie Glow Black-Eyed Susan is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Prairie Glow Black-Eyed Susan deer resistant?
Yes — Prairie Glow Black-Eyed Susan is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Prairie Glow Black-Eyed Susan bloom?
Prairie Glow Black-Eyed Susan typically blooms in 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 Prairie Glow Black-Eyed Susan need full sun?
Prairie Glow Black-Eyed Susan does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Prairie Glow Black-Eyed Susan drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Prairie Glow 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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