Black Eyed Susan- Spring's Most Vibrant Perennial
Black-eyed Susan perennial is a beloved native perennial that adds cheer with its iconic yellow petals and brown center. It is in the same family as daisies and coneflowers. It offers heavy supplies of pollen and nectar, attracting an array of birds that disperse the seeds from the cone center of the flowers. Its nectar-producing ability attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Birds also feast on the seed pod centers of this plant.
Plant Details
Family: Aster (Asteraceae)
Light Requirement: Full sun
Water Needs: High
Height: 2-3 ft.
Spread: 2-3 ft.
Growth Rate: Fast
Bloom Time: Summer
Flower Color: Yellow
Wildlife Value: Attracts bees and butterflies
Black Eyed Susan Landscape Uses & Garden Care
Rudbeckia hirta is a fast-growing, low-maintenance plant that will become an instant hit in your garden. Cut and come again: Enjoy consistent blooms day after day from your cutting flower garden! They bloom from spring through early fall, when most other flowers are already finished blooming.
Place some in your garden as a great addition to the front of the border or your cottage garden. Make a bold statement in a pollinator or butterfly garden, or let their wild side shine in meadow-inspired, naturalistic-style gardens. Pair with coneflower, Joe Pye, and garden phlox for a winning combination that will turn heads when neighbors walk by your front yard.
The beauty and easy care of this plant will truly win you over and have you singing its praises. Give it full sun, ample space to grow, and water when the soil is dry. No need to water if it rains regularly without a drought. This plant does not require fertilizer. You can add compost or leaf mold to the soil when planting with a slow-release fertilizer.
Key Benefits & Wildlife Value of Rudbeckia Plants
This vibrant perennial will attract pollinators to your garden, including bees, wasps, and butterflies. It is the butterfly's larval host, including the Bordered Patch and Gorgone Checkerspot. Leave the stems of this plant to overwinter to help increase the populations of these butterflies.
Black Eyed Susan adds bright pops of color to the landscape, bouquets, and floral arrangements with its vibrant yellow petals and dark brown centers.
Customer Reviews
The shipping was quick, but I had to nurse the plants a bit before they perked up. They’re doing alright now, just not thriving yet.
The plants arrived fast, well-packed, and already had signs of strong growth. They’re now the highlight of my backyard garden.
These Black Eyed Susans are simply gorgeous. They bloomed quickly and brought so much life to my garden. Highly recommend!
Couldn’t be happier with these flowers. They’re low maintenance, colorful, and make my yard look amazing. Definitely ordering more.
I planted them along my walkway, and they’re already adding charm. Would have given 5 stars if all had bloomed right away.
How tall do Black-Eyed Susans get?
Black-Eyed Susans typically grow 2 to 3 feet tall, forming sturdy stems topped with bright yellow blooms. Some varieties can reach up to 4 feet in ideal conditions. Their cheerful height and vibrant color make them a favorite for garden borders and wildflower meadows.
Where is the best place to plant Black-Eyed Susans?
The best place to plant Black-Eyed Susans is in full sun with well-drained soil. They thrive in open areas where they can soak up plenty of light and spread naturally. Once established, they bloom beautifully from summer to fall, brightening any garden space.
How many black-eyed Susans should I plant together?
Plant Black-Eyed Susans in groups of three to five for the best visual impact. Space them about 12 to 18 inches apart so they have room to grow and fill in. Clustering them creates a fuller, more colorful display that attracts butterflies and pollinators.
Exposure
Black-eyed Susans thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate partial shade, but blooming may be reduced. Full sun ensures the best flowering and overall health of these hardy perennials.
Height at Maturity
Over 12"
Usage
Pollinator Plant
Shipped As
Bare-root
Ships
USPS
Planting Zones
3-9
How To Grow
How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs
Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.
For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.
Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.
