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.