Black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia

This is a Genus of about 31 species in the daisy family (Asteraceae) native to most areas of North America. They are commonly called coneflowers or black-eyed Susans. The genus name honors Olof Rudbeck, a 17th-century Swedish botanist. 

These plants can be annual, perennial or biennial, grow 2-10 feet tall and typically spread by self-seeding. They tolerate full sun to partial shade in dry to moist conditions and tolerate poorer soils. Deadheading can encourage further blooms.

The flowers have a raised central cone of disc flowers in black, brown and green surrounded by ray florets in yellow and orange colors. They typically have a long bloom season, are easy to grow and attract pollinators. They are deer and rabbit resistant.

Many species are used in prairie restoration, for ornamental use, and by livestock for forage. There are many cultivators available to use in the border of a pollinator/native garden, drought tolerant garden or cottage garden. They can also be used in naturalized areas.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No significant problems

Video by Andy Pulte for “Landscape Plant Identification, Taxonomy and Morphology” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee.

Additional Video - Part of the Native Plant Picks series from the North Carolina Sea Grant-led Coastal Landscapes Initiative.