Happy Monday! Today’s plant of the week is a popular southern flower, and Louisiana native plant: the Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta). These wildflowers belong in the daisy family (Asteraceae) and are known for their bright yellow petals and dark-colored central cone.
Did you know? The raised center dome is usually a deep chocolate brown rather than true black, leading to the alternative common name “brown-eyed Susan”. Culturally, the Black-Eyed Susan has been the official Maryland flower since 1918. Louis Tiffany himself immortalized the wildflower along with lilies, peonies, irises, and roses with his magnificent “Tiffany Lamp.”
They are highly drought- and heat-resistant, making them ideal beginner-friendly plants for dry, bright areas. Looking for a sun-loving native that adds a pop of yellow to your landscape? Check out the Black-Eyed Susan.