Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
15 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Short-lived perennial or biennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Rudbeckia hirta, commonly known as black-eyed Susan, is a biennial or short-lived perennial that produces large, daisy-like flowers with black centers and bright yellow petals. This species is known for its rugged durability and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a popular choice for wildflower gardens and naturalized areas.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during root formation.
- Transplant seedlings after the last frost for best growth.
- Divide mature plants every 2-3 years to promote vigor.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Water deeply during dry spells to encourage healthy roots.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun for vibrant blooms and robust growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, especially during dry periods 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t disturb roots during the flowering season
- Refrain from using high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| 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
Black-eyed Susan questions
What zones can Black-eyed Susan grow in?
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 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 late summer 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.
More Rudbeckia to compare
American Gold Rush Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta 'American Gold Rush'
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'
Giant Coneflower
Rudbeckia maxima
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
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.
