Black-eyed Susan Dakota Red Shield
Rudbeckia hirta 'Dakota Red Shield'
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
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:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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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
Companion Plants
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.
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