Rudbeckia subtomentosa.
Sweet Black Eyed Susan is a perennial wildflower native to the Midwestern United States where it can often be found growing in prairies, savannas, and alongside rivers.
Said to be named after the popular poem "Black-Eyed Susan" by 19th century poet John Gay.
This rugged prairie plant, which is able to withstand high winds and tough soils, grows to about 5 feet in height and produces numerous showy yellow flowers that bloom from August through October.
Typically blooms in the second year.
Sweet Black Eyed Susan
Growth Chart
Hardiness Zones: 3 to 8 Light Requirement: Full to partial sun Soil Type: Sandy, loamy, well-drained Sow Depth: 1/8 inch Plant Spacing: 12 to 24 inches Germination Note: Cold stratification required Stratification Time: 30 days Bloom Time: August through October Growing Tips
Direct sow in late fall by lightly pressing the seeds into the soil. For spring planting, mix seeds with moist sand and store in the refrigerator for 30 days (cold stratification) before planting.
A Note on Cold Stratification
These seeds require cold, moist stratification. To naturally stratify the seeds, plant outdoors late fall on a weed-free site and allow seeds to overwinter.
To artificially stratify the seeds, place the seeds and a moist medium (such as a damp paper towel, coffee filter, sand, or vermiculite) in a labeled, sealed plastic bag and store in a refrigerator (33-40°F) for the amount of time noted on the growth chart before sowing.