Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta
Showy daisy-like yellow to orange petals with a dark central cone; hardy, drought-tolerant, attracts pollinators, and grows 1–3 ft tall.
Pet-Friendly Plant
Toxicity: non toxic
Rudbeckia hirta is generally regarded as non-toxic to pets and humans. Mild gastrointestinal upset is possible if large amounts are ingested.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place Rudbeckia in full sun where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In hot climates give afternoon partial shade. For containers, choose a south- or west-facing spot and avoid deep shade to prevent legginess.
Water
Water deeply but infrequently: allow the top 2.5 cm (1 in) of soil to dry between waterings. Water until moisture reaches the root zone, then drain excess. Increase frequency during heat waves; reduce in cool or dormant periods.
Humidity
Black-eyed Susans tolerate low to average humidity. Avoid persistently high humidity and poor air circulation to reduce fungal disease; provide airflow and space plants 30–45 cm apart.
Temperature
Active growth prefers about 10–30°C (50–86°F). Plants are winter-hardy and can survive much colder dormant temperatures down to roughly -30°C (-22°F) in many cultivars.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Powdery or downy mildew on leaves
Cause: High humidity, poor air circulation, or overhead watering
Solution: Improve airflow, water at soil level, remove infected foliage and apply fungicide if severe
Yellowing, soft stems or wilting
Cause: Overwatering or poorly drained soil causing root rot
Solution: Improve drainage, reduce watering, lift plant to inspect roots and replant in fresh well-draining mix if needed
Leggy, elongated growth and fewer blooms
Cause: Insufficient direct sunlight
Solution: Move to a sunnier location with at least 6 hours of direct sun and pinch back stems to promote branching
Aphids, slugs or caterpillars feeding on foliage
Cause: Common garden pests attracted to flowers and tender leaves
Solution: Hand-pick pests, spray with insecticidal soap or use biological controls like beneficial insects
✂️How to Propagate Black-eyed Susan
Propagation is straightforward by seed or clump division. Seeds: sow outdoors in fall or start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost; press seeds lightly into well-draining mix and keep moist until germination (7–21 days). Division: in early spring or fall, lift clumps, separate crowns with roots and replant at the same depth, water well. Space divisions 30–45 cm apart.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Asteraceae
Native to: Native to central and eastern North America, including the United States and Canada.
Natural Habitat: Common in prairies, open fields, roadsides and disturbed sunny sites with well-drained soils; tolerates dry, rocky or sandy soils and periodic drought.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Cut back spent stems after frost or leave seedheads for birds; mulch lightly in colder zones to protect crowns.
Spring
Divide overcrowded clumps, top-dress with compost, and start watering as shoots emerge; deadhead to encourage branching.
Summer
Provide deep watering during drought. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong bloom; watch for mildew in humid weather.
Fall
Allow some seedheads for wildlife, reduce watering as plants go dormant and transplant or divide if needed.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Black-eyed Susans?
Water deeply when the top 2.5 cm (1 in) of soil is dry, typically every 7–14 days depending on heat and soil drainage.
Do Rudbeckias come back every year?
Yes; many varieties are hardy perennials that return each year, and some are short-lived perennials or self-seeding biennials.
When is best time to divide Rudbeckia?
Divide in early spring as growth begins or in early fall when the plant is less stressed by heat.
How do I deadhead Black-eyed Susans?
Pinch or snip spent flower heads back to the nearest leaf node to encourage more blooms.
Are Black-eyed Susans deer resistant?
They are somewhat deer-resistant but not deer-proof; heavy browsing can occur where deer pressure is high.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025