Also known as Black-eyed Susan, Yellow Coneflower, Gloriosa Daisy, Brown Betty
Bright golden rays frame a domed chocolate-brown center on this resilient native wildflower, whose rough, bristly stems deter grazing herbivores. Functioning as a pioneer species across open fields and prairies, black-eyed Susan blossoms continuously from midsummer through fall. Numerous native bees, butterflies, and beetles depend on its rich nectar and pollen reserves.
HabitatsPrairies, fields, roadsides, open woodlands
Life span1 to 3 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
OrderAsterales
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusRudbeckia
Speciesrudbeckia hirta
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
Low
Moderate
High
Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
Field Identification: Look for rough, bristly hairs covering the stems and lance-shaped leaves, paired with bright yellow rays surrounding a dark brown central disk.
Gardening Support: Leave spent flower heads intact during autumn to supply winter seeds for goldfinches and native sparrows.
