Black-Eyed Susan

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Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) is a hardy North American native wildflower recognized for its bright golden-yellow petals and distinctive dark brown center. Plants generally grow 24–36 inches tall and produce long-lasting summer flowers that add vibrant color to gardens, meadows, prairies, naturalized landscapes, and wildflower plantings.

Black-Eyed Susan grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It adapts to a wide range of soil types and has good drought tolerance once established, provided the site is reasonably well drained.

Depending on climate and growing conditions, Black-Eyed Susan may behave as an annual, biennial, or short-lived perennial. It can reseed naturally when mature seed is allowed to develop.

Native Range

Black-Eyed Susan is native to much of North America, occurring throughout much of the United States and into Canada and northern Mexico. It is commonly found in fields, prairies, pastures, open woodlands, roadsides, and other open habitats.

Pacific Northwest Planting

Black-Eyed Susan can be planted in both fall and spring in the Pacific Northwest.

Fall Planting

Fall planting can be successful after temperatures have cooled enough to prevent premature germination. Sow late enough that the seed remains dormant through winter or establishes a small plant before winter. Fall planting can provide an early start the following spring.

Spring Planting

Spring planting is a reliable option once soil conditions are suitable. Sow directly into a prepared seed bed and provide good seed-to-soil contact.

Early spring planting gives plants more time to establish and may allow flowering during the first growing season.

Planting in Other Regions

Black-Eyed Susan is adaptable to a wide range of climates. In colder regions, spring planting is generally the safest option, while fall planting can be successful where winter conditions allow.

In areas with mild winters, fall planting can provide an early start the following spring. In warmer climates, Black-Eyed Susan may behave more like an annual, while in other areas it may persist as a biennial or short-lived perennial.

For detailed information on site preparation, seeding methods, planting depth, and general planting practices, see our Planting Directions page.

Establishment & Growth

Black-Eyed Susan is readily established from seed. Plants generally reach 24–36 inches tall and produce yellow flowers with dark brown centers during summer and into early fall.

Plants can flower during their first year when planted early enough, although flowering is often more abundant once plants are established.

Pollinator & Wildlife Value

Black-Eyed Susan provides nectar and pollen for a variety of pollinators, including native bees and other flower-visiting insects. Mature seed heads can also provide food for birds.

Larger Quantities

For quantities larger than those currently listed for sale, please contact us for availability and pricing.

Seeding Rates

The broadcast rate for seeding is 4–5 pounds per acre.

The seed drill rate for seeding in rows is 2 pounds per acre.