Black-eyed Susan is a short-lived perennial or biennial wildflower native to North America. It is known for its bright yellow petals surrounding a dark brown central cone. This hardy plant thrives in a variety of conditions and is a staple in wildflower meadows, pollinator gardens, and landscapes.
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Growth Habits and Characteristics
•Height & Spread: 1-3 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide
•Sun Requirements: Full sun (tolerates partial shade but flowers best in full sun)
•Soil Preferences: Adaptable to a wide range of soils; prefers well-drained, dry to medium soils
•Bloom Time: Summer to early fall (June-September)
•Foliage: Rough, hairy, lance-shaped green leaves
•Lifespan: Biennial to short-lived perennial, though it readily self-seeds for continuous presence in the landscape
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Host Insect
•Serves as a host plant for the Silvery Checkerspot (Chlosyne nycteis) butterfly caterpillar.
•Attracts numerous pollinators, including native bees, butterflies, and beetles.
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Companion Plants
•Purple Coneflower
•Little Bluestem
•Beebalm
•Blazing Star
•Blue False Indigo
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Ecological Importance
•Pollinator Support: Nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
•Bird Forage: Seeds provide an important food source for finches and other songbirds in late summer and fall
•Drought Tolerance: Thrives in poor, dry soils, making it a resilient choice for wildflower meadows and erosion control
•Wildlife Habitat: Supports a diverse range of beneficial insects and contributes to a healthy ecosystem
Black-eyed Susan is an easy-to-grow, visually striking wildflower that enhances biodiversity while adding long-lasting color to native plant gardens and meadow restorations.