Black-eyed Susan

Black-eyed Susan brings sunny waves of golden ray blooms all summer and into fall. The easy-care wildflower is a top performer for its ornament and ecological value.

• When to sow: Late fall, winter, or early spring for natural cold exposure. Indoors, start seeds 8-10 weeks ahead of spring's final frost.
• Light: Full sun (6+ hours) to partial shade (4+ hours).
• Soil: Average, well-drained soils; tolerates lean, poor sites.
• Water: Keep evenly moist through germination. Drought-tolerant once established.
• Depth: Tamp gently onto the soil surface; seeds benefit from light exposure.
• Spacing: 12–18" apart.

For a summer planting (up to two months before fall's first frost) or when starting indoors, boost germination by chilling seeds in moist media for 30 days.

Often behaving as an annual or short-lived perennial, R. hirta blooms in the first year. Black-eyed Susan offers reliable color and withstands hot and dry conditions.

• Height: 1–3 feet.
• Bloom window: Early summer through fall.
• Wildlife: Nectar for bees and butterflies; seeds for finches and other birds.
• Habit: Upright stems above clumping basal leaves.
• Best uses: Meadows, borders, cottage-style, and native pollinator themes.

Leave seed heads standing through winter for birds, reseeding, and extended interst. Pithy stems support nesting insects.