Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

from $4.00

A classic wildflower native to much of North America, Black-Eyed Susan offers a vibrant splash of golden yellow to any landscape. Interestingly, this hardy plant can act as a biennial or perennial depending on growing conditions. Even when short-lived, it readily self-seeds and spreads, forming cheerful clusters in fields, gardens, and meadows. Exceptionally drought-tolerant, Black-Eyed Susan also thrives in damper soils, making it a versatile choice. In summer, its bright blooms attract tiny bees, and in fall, birds feast on the seed heads. Growing up to 3 feet tall, it’s the perfect wildflower for the front of your garden beds.

Growing Conditions

  • Light: Full sun to partial shade

  • Soil Moisture: Dry to medium

  • Soil: Well-drained, sandy, loamy, or rocky soils

  • Height: 1–3 feet

  • Spread: 1–2 feet

  • Bloom Time: June–October

  • Flower Color: Golden yellow with dark brown centers

  • Hardiness Zones: 3–9

  • Growth Habit: Biennial or short-lived perennial; readily self-seeds

  • Native Range: Eastern and central North America, including Maine

Options:

  • Packet of approximately 100 seeds.

  • Bare Root Plants can be planted into loose soil in the fall or spring and kept moist until new growth emerges.

Plant Type:

A classic wildflower native to much of North America, Black-Eyed Susan offers a vibrant splash of golden yellow to any landscape. Interestingly, this hardy plant can act as a biennial or perennial depending on growing conditions. Even when short-lived, it readily self-seeds and spreads, forming cheerful clusters in fields, gardens, and meadows. Exceptionally drought-tolerant, Black-Eyed Susan also thrives in damper soils, making it a versatile choice. In summer, its bright blooms attract tiny bees, and in fall, birds feast on the seed heads. Growing up to 3 feet tall, it’s the perfect wildflower for the front of your garden beds.

Growing Conditions

  • Light: Full sun to partial shade

  • Soil Moisture: Dry to medium

  • Soil: Well-drained, sandy, loamy, or rocky soils

  • Height: 1–3 feet

  • Spread: 1–2 feet

  • Bloom Time: June–October

  • Flower Color: Golden yellow with dark brown centers

  • Hardiness Zones: 3–9

  • Growth Habit: Biennial or short-lived perennial; readily self-seeds

  • Native Range: Eastern and central North America, including Maine

Options:

  • Packet of approximately 100 seeds.

  • Bare Root Plants can be planted into loose soil in the fall or spring and kept moist until new growth emerges.