black-eyed Susan

This low maintenance resilient Rudbeckia fulgida (blacked eyed Susan) is a wildflower adds a pop of bold yellow color in the summertime, as it also entices pollinators to visit the garden.

Blacked eyed Susan is native to Eastern and Central North America, it occurs in open woods, prairies, fields, roadsides and waste areas. It is a coarse, hairy, somewhat weedy plant that features daisy-like flowers with bright yellow to orange-yellow rays and domed, dark chocolate-brown center disk.

This windflower  has been used for medicinal purposes, the roots can be used to like Echinacea purpurea to boost immunity and fight colds, flu, and infections. The Ojibwa people used it as a poultice for snake bites and make an infusion for treating colds and worms for children. It was used as a diuretic by the Menominee and Potawatomi people.

Botanical Name Rudbeckia fulgida
Common Name black-eyed Susan
Family Asteraceae
USDA Zone 3 thru 9
Light Requirement Full Sun
Season(s) of interest summer, fall, winter
Height and Spread 2-3ft x 2-2.5ft (60-90cm x 60-75cm)
Flower Color Yellow with Black centers
Attracts Wildlife Provides Food for Birds, Hosts Caterpillars of Butterflies/Moths, Attracts Pollinators, Rarely Browsed by Mammalian Herbivores
Additional Information Native to US Midwest.
Location in Lurie Garden Bird Border – Monroe

 

Average Flowering Time