Growing Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckias)
Fond memories and easy care may come to mind when you hear the name Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckias). There are more than 20 different annual, biennial and perennial species and most tolerate clay soil, drought and the deer tend to leave them be.
The brown cone, in the midst of the yellow petals, inspired the name black-eyed Susan. It’s commonly used for all Rudbeckias. You and the pollinators will enjoy flowers most of the summer and even into the fall.
Leaf spot diseases have wreaked havoc on the popular Goldsturm variety. Infected plants survive, the finches still eat the seeds, but the leaves look awful by late summer. Avoid the problem by growing resistant varieties like the compact Little Goldstar and Viette’s Little Suzy.
Or go big with Rudbeckia ‘Herbstonne’. It grows 4 to 7 feet tall and the 3 to 4” daisy-like flowers have drooping yellow petals and a green center.
A bit more information: Grow rudbeckias with other native plants like asters, coneflowers and liatris or native grasses like switchgrass and prairie dropseed. They also combine nicely with nonnative perennials like sedum, red hot poker, yarrow and fountain grass.
Related
Categories
Upcoming Webinars & Appearances
March 22, 2023
FREE WEBINAR:
In a Pot, You Can Grow Alot!
Register now
March 25, 2023
OCMGA Annual Garden Conference
Appleton, Wisconsin
March 26, 2023
REALTORS Home & Garden Show
West Allis, Wisconsin
March 29, 2023
FREE WEBINAR:
Gardening Basics to Boost Your Success
Register now
April 1, 2023
REALTORS Home & Garden Show
West Allis, Wisconsin
April 5, 2023
FREE WEBINAR:
What's New - Discover
New & Unique Plants!
Register now
April 11, 2023
Southwestern Indiana Master Gardener Association's 2023 Speaker Series
Darmstadt, Indiana
April 18, 2023
FREE WEBINAR:
Growing a Bountiful Harvest even when Time, Space & Budget are Limited
Register now
April 20, 2023
SC Johnson Golden Rondelle Theater Speaker Series
Racine, WI
Register now
April 22, 2023
Pasquesi Home & Gardens
Lake Bluff, IL
April 25, 2023
Frederik Meijer Gardens
Grand Rapids, MI
Watch Melinda's past webinars ON DEMAND
Learn More