As part of the restoration experiment, some of the glades were seeded and others were not. Among the plants seeded are Rudbeckia missouriensis, Dalea purpurea, Baptisia austalis and Tephrosia ... Fast-growing black-eyed Susan is easily the most commonly known Rudbeckia, with its daisy-like flowers with large seed heads.

Understanding the Context

It also has scratchy, hairy leaves that are characteristic of its genus (this may not be one of its best features, but it does help keep pests away). Rudbeckia are perennial flowering plants that are hardy in Zones 4–9. Like many plants, they have several common names, among which are: Black-eyed Susan, Gloriosa Daisy, and Yellow Ox Eye. They are members of the Asteraceae family and are native to both damp woodlands and dry prairies in North America.

Key Insights

Rudbeckia is one of at least four genera within the flowering plant family Asteraceae whose members are commonly known as coneflowers; the others are Echinacea, Dracopis, and Ratibida. Rudbeckia species are eaten by the caterpillars of some Lepidoptera species including cabbage moths and dot moths. Learn how to plant, grow, and care for black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta). Discover their bloom time, care tips, when to cut them back, and how to save seeds for replanting. Often thought of as a wildflower, there are actually many cultivated varieties of rudbeckia.

Final Thoughts

These occur across several species and come in various combinations of warm shades, including red, orange, yellow, and brown. What is Rudbeckia? Rudbeckia is a genus of 23 or more species in the daisy family (Asteraceae), native entirely to North America. The common name Black-Eyed Susan refers to the distinctive dark brown to nearly black central disc — the “eye” — surrounded by bright golden-yellow ray petals. Rudbeckia, or black-eyed Susan, offers long-lasting yellow blooms and easy care. Learn how to plant, grow, and use rudbeckia in sunny pollinator gardens.