Fauna
Plant

Black-eyed Susan

Rudbeckia hirta

Also known as Yellow Coneflower, Gloriosa Daisy, Brown-eyed Susan, Golden Jerusalem

Black-eyed Susans brighten North American prairies, fields, and roadsides with golden-yellow ray florets encircling a dark brown central cone. Stiff, coarse hairs cover the stems and leaves, providing natural protection against water loss and grazing animals. As a pioneer wildflower, this short-lived perennial quickly establishes in disturbed soil and supplies vital nectar to late-summer pollinators.

WildflowerPollinator MagnetSun-Loving
Black-eyed Susan reference1 / 7
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preySunlight, Soil Nutrients, Water
Predators
  • White-Tailed Deer
  • Rabbits
ThreatsHabitat loss, invasive weed competition, frequent mowing
HabitatsPrairies, meadows, roadsides, open woodlands, pastures
Life span1–3 years (annual, biennial, or short-lived perennial)
Classification
  1. OrderAsterales
  2. FamilyAsteraceae
  3. GenusRudbeckia
  4. SpeciesRudbeckia hirta
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Observation: Look for native bees, syrphid flies, and butterflies feeding on the central disk florets.
  • Garden Care: Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, avoiding overwatering once established.
  • Winter Seed Source: Leave dried flower heads standing through autumn to feed goldfinches and other birds.
Related species
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