Black Eyed Susan Rudbeckia Seeds

One of the most popular wildflowers and a classic addition to summer gardens, rudbeckia hirta is a drought-tolerant, easy-to-grow self-seeding biennial. Originally native to the plains of eastern and central North America, rudbeckia hirta is quite hardy and has spread naturally to all 10 Canadian provinces and 48 states of the continental US. Its adaptable nature makes it an excellent choice for poor soils and tough conditions. Long used as herbal medicine by Native Americans, rudbeckia hirta is now widely cultivated to add a splash of colours to gardens, borders and cut flower bouquets. Loved by many beneficial pollinators, it is one of the longest lasting wildflowers as it will continue to blossom until the first fall frost.

The name ‘’Black Eyed Susan’’ refers to an old maritime ballad written in 1720 by the poet John Gay and became a legendary tale of love in English literature. The story is about Susan who loved a sailor named William. Susan had been crying so much trying to find her lover that she had black circles around her eyes. When she finally found William, the captain announced the departure of the ship. The name black-eyed Susan was most likely given to the plant by early British colonists. Legend has it that Black Eyed Susan and Sweet William (dianthus barbatus) bloom at the same time to celebrate their eternal love for each other.

- Latin Name: Rudbeckia hirta
- Life Cycle: Perrenial
- Canada Hardiness Zone: 5-9
- Days to Maturity: Second year maturity
- Planting Depth: 3-4 mm
- Plant Spacing: 45 cm
- Growth Habit: 60-90 cm tall

GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

Rudbeckias thrive in the wild and grace many countryside meadows with their radiant, yellow petals. To start your own at home, plant seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date. If sowing directly outdoors, wait until the soil has warmed to 21 degrees. Lightly cover seeds with soil. Germination requires exposure to light and should occur in about a week’s time. A site with full sun and rich, well-drained soil is ideal.

Seedlings should be hardened off gradually when transferring outside. Plant seeds, or seedlings, close together to keep them from sprawling throughout the garden. If more space is allowed between each planting, blooms will stretch and establish a nice border. Providing ample space is also an effective way to prevent disease from creeping in and spreading. The perfect amount of space is about 45 cm between each flower. Rudbeckia typically grow to a height of 30-90 cm and can spread 30-45 cm, so plant according to your garden dimensions and desired growing habits.

Avoid high fertility and make sure that the soil and roots remain moist, but water only when absolutely necessary. Don’t let any moisture accumulate on the foliage, as this could increase the possibility of disease. Deadhead as flowers fade to extend their blooming period. Remove seed heads to prevent excessive self-sowing. Stalks can be cut back to try to achieve a second bloom in the fall. Plantings can be divided every few years to keep the perennials properly spaced and healthy. 

For cut flowers that are to be displayed, harvest right before the buds are fully open. By changing the water every day, blooms should last in a vase for 10 days or more. 

QUICK FACTS

- Rudbeckias are low-maintenance and drought-resistant, making them an ideal choice for water-wise gardens, raingardens and xeriscapes.

- Black-eyed Susans are known as pioneer plants, they are often the first plants to grow in an area damaged by fire or natural disasters. 

- Rudbeckia seeds will remain viable for 2 years if stored in a cool, dark place, ideally between 4 and 10⁰C. After that, the germination rate may start to go down.