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Description
Rudbeckia hirta. At 30–100 cm (12–39") tall, this North American native annual wildflower is immediately familiar, and conjures a sense of the heat of mid-summer. Dark brown cone centres are surrounded by pure yellow petals in flowers 5-8cm (2-3") across. Black Eyed Susan is a common name shared by many plants, but this is the annual that is native to the northeastern United States. This plant has been used by a number of First Nations as a medicinal poultice to treat a number of infections, including cold and flu. You'll love the bright look of this plant in mass plantings or in larger containers.
| Latin Name |
Rudbeckia hirta |
| Difficulty |
Easy |
| Exposure |
Full sun |
| Timing |
Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost, or direct sow about 2 weeks before last frost. If starting indoors, provide bright light and maintain a soil temperature of 21-25°C (70-75°F). Expect germination in 5-21 days. |
| Starting |
Sow seeds on the surface of the soil. Thin or transplant to stand 30cm (12″) apart. In hot summers, some afternoon shade is appreciated.` |
| Growing |
Top dress with a thin layer of well rotted manure once a year. Keep watered in hot weather, and deadhead regularly. Plants may self-sow, which should be encouraged. |
