Species

Rudbeckia hirtaBlack-eyed Susan

14 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Black-eyed Susan Dakota Red Shield

Rudbeckia hirta 'Dakota Red Shield'

The Story

Plant Bio

A North American native wildflower, typically biennial or short-lived perennial, featuring coarse, hairy leaves and brilliant, daisy-like flowers with dark central cones.

Features large, 5-6 inch, deep velvety-red flowers with a dark brown central cone. It has a compact, sturdy habit and is exceptionally long-blooming from summer to frost.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid red flowers add striking color to gardens, attracting pollinators and enhancing visual appeal.

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

Provides nectar for bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesRudbeckia hirtaBlack-eyed Susan

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, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Short-lived perennial, often grown as an annual

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water regularly until established, then drought-tolerant.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring for best growth.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Divide in early spring or fall every 2–3 years for rejuvenation.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for best performance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Deadhead to prolong flowering
Divide every 2–3 years

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Ignore deadheading ❌
Plant in shady spots ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid flower borderWildflower meadowColorful perennial bed

Companion Plants

Echinacea Liatris Sedum Coreopsis Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Black-eyed Susan Dakota Red Shield questions

What zones can Black-eyed Susan Dakota Red Shield grow in?

Black-eyed Susan Dakota Red Shield 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 Dakota Red Shield deer resistant?

Yes — Black-eyed Susan Dakota Red Shield is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Black-eyed Susan Dakota Red Shield bloom?

Black-eyed Susan Dakota Red Shield 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 Black-eyed Susan Dakota Red Shield need full sun?

Black-eyed Susan Dakota Red Shield does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Black-eyed Susan Dakota Red Shield drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Black-eyed Susan Dakota Red Shield handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.