Rudbeckia hirta aka Blackeyed Susan

Taxonomy

Rudbeckia hirta, also known as black-eyed Susan, is a North American flowering plant in the aster family. It is native to Eastern and Central North America and has become naturalized in the Western part of the continent, as well as in China. This popular wildflower is the state flower of Maryland and can be found in all 10 Canadian Provinces and all 48 contiguous states in the US. The plant can grow over 3 feet tall, with leaves of 6 inches, stalks over 8 inches long, and flowers with a diameter of 2 to 3 inches. The "black eye" refers to the dark, brown-purple centers of its daisy-like flower heads. Butterflies, bees, and other insects are attracted to the flowers for the nectar, aiding in pollination. These plants bloom from June to October and tend to be territorial, squeezing out other flowers growing near them. While they are invasive in many tropical areas, including Hawaii and Mexico, black-eyed Susans are relatively rare as houseplants. They are easy to grow and require regular watering, thriving best in long-lasting direct light and being within 1 foot of a window.

Common names

Blackeyed Susan, Hairy Coneflower, Black Eyed Susan

How to care for Blackeyed Susan

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Blackeyed Susan due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Blackeyed Susan should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Blackeyed Susan loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Blackeyed Susan thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Black Eyed Susan.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Blackeyed Susan is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

Blackeyed Susan grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Blackeyed Susan’s native range is N. America. An occasional garden escape in Britain[17].


More info:
Wikipedia