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Floppy growth
Increase sun and avoid high-nitrogen feeding.
Native plant profile · Flower
Black-eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta
Its dark center is made of many tiny disk flowers, creating a compact feeding station for visiting insects.
- Sun
- Full sun; tolerates some light shade
- Water
- Water while establishing; established plants handle ordinary dry spells
- Bloom
- Summer into early fall
- Difficulty
- Beginner
Garden Log editorial layer
A guide, not distribution data
This profile contains Garden Log planting notes and recommendations. It does not define where the species is native.
USDA-linked identity
USDA symbol: RUHI2
Use the native plant explorer for live USDA-derived state distribution. A state record still does not establish suitability for every county, elevation, or garden.
Right plant, right place
Growing notes
- Best setting
- Open meadows, prairie-style beds, and sunny pollinator gardens.
- Soil
- Average, well-drained soil
- Mature size
- Usually 1–3 ft. tall
- Container use
- Possible in a deep, well-drained pot
- Wildlife value
- Flowers support pollinators; dry seedheads can feed birds.
A careful start
Planting steps
- 01
Choose a sunny, draining spot.
- 02
Sow or plant at the depth supplied by the seed grower or nursery.
- 03
Keep evenly moist while roots establish.
- 04
Leave some dry seedheads for birds if disease is not present.
If something looks off
Common checks
Leaf spots
Improve airflow and water the soil rather than the foliage.
Source trail
Review the references
These references support the range and care details stored with this record. Local native-plant societies and Cooperative Extension offices can help narrow a state-level record to your site.