Species

Rudbeckia fulgidaOrange Coneflower

2 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Viette's Little Suzy Black-Eyed Susan

Rudbeckia fulgida 'Viette'

The Story

Plant Bio

Rudbeckia fulgida, commonly known as black-eyed Susan, is a reliable and popular herbaceous perennial native to eastern North America. It is valued for its long summer-to-fall bloom of daisy-like flowers with yellow rays and dark brown center cones.

A compact cultivar, 'Viette's Little Suzy' typically grows to only 18-24 inches tall. It is noted for its profuse and exceptionally long bloom period, from mid-summer to mid-fall, and its good resistance to Septoria leaf spot.

Uses & Benefits:

Vibrant, daisy-like flowers add cheerful color to gardens and cut flower arrangements.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for sustainable landscaping.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

SpeciesRudbeckia fulgidaOrange Coneflower

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

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
Transplant young plants outdoors after the last frost date for optimal growth.
Divide mature clumps in early spring or fall to rejuvenate plants.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially in summer.
Prune dead or damaged foliage in late winter to encourage healthy new growth.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Avoid heavy clay soil without amendments
Don’t prune in late fall to prevent winter damage
Don’t disturb roots during peak flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright, cheerful border with golden-yellow flowersWildflower meadow for ecological benefitsDrought-tolerant accent in xeriscape gardens

Companion Plants

EchinaceaLavender Coreopsis Salvia Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Viette's Little Suzy Black-Eyed Susan questions

What zones can Viette's Little Suzy Black-Eyed Susan grow in?

Viette's Little Suzy 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 Viette's Little Suzy Black-Eyed Susan deer resistant?

Yes — Viette's Little Suzy Black-Eyed Susan is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Viette's Little Suzy Black-Eyed Susan bloom?

Viette's Little Suzy Black-Eyed Susan typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Viette's Little Suzy Black-Eyed Susan need full sun?

Viette's Little Suzy Black-Eyed Susan does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Viette's Little Suzy Black-Eyed Susan drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Viette's Little Suzy Black-Eyed Susan handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.