Petals of a Black-eyed Susan by Richard Haynes, Missouri USA Since childhood I have been intrigued by the marvelous color variety of flowering plants: why and how do so many colors occur? Why so few blue flowers and so many yellow? How do the flowers produce their colors and of what substances are they made? I had many questions but very few answers. [At this point I must say I'm not a trained botanist or even a decent gardener. (My wife has that attribute, thankfully.) I'm simply a retired chemist with botanical questions.] After earning a living in a commercial chemical direction that had nothing to do with gardening, botany or any of their aspects, I retired. However, I was still interested in flower colors so I began a few studies of yellow wild flowers because of their ubiquity and ease of obtaining them. The flower I have studied the most has been a Missouri region variety (Rudbeckia missouriensis) of the Black-eyed Susan, Rudbeckia hirta. R. missouriensis is a smaller variety of its larger North American cousin, R. hirta, and has blossoms perhaps one-half the size of the better known plant.

Both are members of the worldwide Daisy (asteraceae) family with its 1,000 genera and 20,000 species. Some other family flowers and plants are the sunflower, coneflower, dandelion, coreopsis, yarrow, goldenrod, thistle, tansy, etc., etc. [A botanical description of Rudbeckia missouriensis is at the end of this article.] Fig. 1 R. missouriensis Fig. 2 R. missouriensis Extracting somewhat pure, unchanged color pigments from wild flowers is challenging, especially in a very small home laboratory not equipped for organic synthesis. Once extracted, examining spectra to attempt any identification is also challenging, frustrating (especially without pigment comparisons) and time consuming. So, I recently took time away from the project to do other things. One of these was to use my microscope to have a go at visually searching for the yellow pigments in the petals themselves. (Actually, I thought this might be more entertaining rather than really useful.) I don't have a microtome but, by employing the ingenuous double razor blade method reported by Walter Dioni ( Micscape February 2004 ) I produced reasonably useful slices.

To maintain some cell osmotic pressure, the material was cut under water (Dioni method) then mounted in weak saline solution under cover glasses; I made no attempt at permanent mounts. All the observations were essentially photographic and thus relatively brief. STEM I looked first at transverse slices of R. missouriensis stems that had dried-on-the-stalk. (Here in Missouri we are in a summer-long drought.) Figures 3 and 4, below, reveal a multi-sided, deep faceted dry stem with its central phloem core more than half gone and the small vascular bundles surrounding the stem are closed. Figures 5 and 6 of a healthy stem, on the other hand, show that both the fluid bearing central phloem cells and the vascular bundles are intact and functioning. The greenish areas along the stem boundary, fig. 6, contain many chloroplasts in which chlorophyll is present. Two closer views of the chlorophyll cell regions are seen in figures 7 and 8, both being composites of more than one photo. Probably the needles seen in the cells in figure 9 are calcium oxalate (a metabolic by-product) along with tiny bundles of chlorophyll-containing cells. Fig.

3 Dry Stem, Rheinberg, 40X Fig. 4 Dry Stem, 100X Fig. 5 Fresh Stem, 40X Fig. 6 Rheinberg filter, 100X Fig. 7 Composite, 100X Fig. 8 Composite, 400X Fig. 9 Calcium Oxalate raphides, 400X A longitudinal slice (LS) of the dry stem, figures 10 and 11, also reveals the loss of the central phloem cells. Bubbles in Fig. 10 are from water in the slide prep. Fig. 10 LS, Dry Stem, 40X Fig. 11 LS, Edge Cells, 400X PERIANTH A longitudinal slice through the perianth, the flower base section composed of the sepals (calyx) and the petals (corolla), was made to look for pigmented cells, especially where the petals attached. As might be expected, Fig. 12 and 13 at the bottom edge featured cells filled with opaque red-orange pigment. Cells higher up the slice, Fig. 14, contained areas of chlorophyll. Fig.

12 Edge Cells of pigment, 100X Fig. 13 Closer view, 400X Fig. 14 Chlorophyll 400X PETAL SURFACE The surface of a few cut petals was examined in oblique light; orderly rows of nipple-like (papillae) elongated surface cells filled with yellow pigment were seen. Figures 15 and 16 show the rows; figures 17 and 18 capture the papillae up close, 17 being very nearly a side view while 18 is almost straight on. Papillae, which are small thickenings of the cuticle and may be hollow or solid, often give a velvet appearance to a petal. (The cuticle is a non-cellular outer protective layer.) Fig. 15 Surface papillae rows 40X Fig. 16 Closer example 100X Fig. 17 Side view of papillae 400X Fig. 18 Papillae almost straight on 400X PETALS Finally, transverse sections of the petals themselves were put under the 'scope.

Flower petals are basically leaves that have become transformed into the colorful but relatively fragile "glory of the plant". Many petals of flowers show their leaf likeness by possessing a few or many vein-like creases running through their structures. Figure 19, below, is a TS of the central portion of a R. missouriensis petal. A crease or dip in the section is evident. Figures 20 and 21 at 100X reveal small pockets of red pigment along their bottom edges. Figure 22 at 400X focuses on the bottom portion of the petal crease and shows both chlorophyll cellular pockets as well as a rich scattering of red pigment cells. Figures 23 and 24 continue the focus on the bottom edge and the interior cellular structures with pigment packets very much in evidence. Fig. 19 Crease in petal 40X Fig. 20 Small red pigmented area 100X Fig. 21 Another pigment area 100X Fig. 22 Crease area with color cells near the bottom 400X Fig. 23 Red pigment bridging two edge cells (see fig.

20) 400X Fig. 24 Small Packets of pigment in cells 1,000X (oil) These areas of intense red-orange pigments most likely are carotenoid/xanthophyll compounds but may also be flavonoids. R. missouriensis contains both chemical groups though the carotenoids/xanthophylls seem to be present in larger amounts (my initial work appears to indicate this). In Nature, there are a number of yellow flowers that appear to be colored by some combination of carotenoid/flavinoid compounds. The carotenoids are oil soluble and are found in plastids within chromoplasts of the petals. (Interestingly, carotenoids often crystallize within chromoplasts.) Flavinoids are water soluble and are located in vacuole cavities. Anthrocyanins of the flavanoid family are present in many flowers and are the major contributors to red, purple and blue flowers. They too have a role in producing yellow in flowers but that role is as yet somewhat murky. And, the physical nature of the petal surface may likely have an effect on its color. Fig. 25 Yellow pigment edge cells 400X Fig.

26 Pigments in bottom edge cells 1,000X (Oil) Fig. 27 Pigment in cells near the top surface in an apparent liquid state 1,000X (Oil) Observations of the papillae (below) were interesting. In one, figure 28, most of the liquid formerly in the tips of the elongated cells has disappeared leaving what appears to be a crystalline pigment mass. The transparent nature of the cuticle tissue of the papillae is quite distinct as well. Conversely, in figure 29 the entire papillae are filled and a clear liquid in motion was seen churning around the tip ends. And, while there may be some crystalline pigments, most of the dark yellow mass appeared to be in solution. Figure 30 is a photo composite of the transverse slice, top to bottom. Because of compositing, the photo is somewhat darker than the individual pictures. However the petal structure difference between top and bottom is clear. (The papillae themselves are quite small: their average length is 0.077 mm and diameter is 0.027 mm.) Fig.

28 Solid pigment 400X Fig. 29 Pigment in solution 400X Fig. 30 T/S composite 400X The papillae were looked at under highest magnification, figures 31 to 33, and more evidence of pigment clumping and/or crystallization was found in figure 32. In figure 31 the channel through which fluid flow was taking place is seen on the left side of the papilla and small amounts of pigment can be detected within the flow. Also the cuticle tip of the papilla is somewhat thicker than its walls and this was characteristic of most of the papillae observed. Almost all of the right papilla in figure 33 is empty of pigment though a mass of red-yellow pigment (?) sits turgidly at the bottom, seeming to mingle with chlorophyll containing cells. Fig. 31 Pigment movement 1,000X (Oil) Fig. 32 Pigment clumping 1,000X (Oil) Fig.

33 Empty papilla 1,000X (Oil) At this point, I'm still studying my data and pictures to determine if I've really learned anything about the yellow pigment source(s) of Missouri's Black-eyed Susan, Rudbeckia missouriensis. Maybe yes, maybe no. Oh, I almost forgot: I have a little puzzle for Micscape readers. In looking over the petal surfaces at 400X, I discovered two tiny critters, or I think they're critters, nestling between the papillae of the upper surface. See figures 34 and 35. Both measure approximately 0.01 mm in width and 0.04 mm in length. Any idea what these unknown (to me, anyway) critters, bugs, cocoons, etc., might be??? Editor's note added October 2006: Readers kindly emailed Richard to remark on the nature of these organisms; they are 'Alternaria, a common fungal spore that affects plants' and are described in the October 2006 issue. Fig. 34 ??? 400X I am interested to hear from Micscape readers and all comments are welcome.

Missouri Black-eyed Susan - Rudbeckia missouriensis Asteraceae ï¿½ï¿½ï¿½ Daisy Family Description: linear with only the lowest ones lance-shaped REFERENCES 1. Raven, Peter H., Evert, Ray F., Eichhorn, Susan E., Biology of Plants, 6th Ed., W.H. Freeman & Co., New York, 1999 2. Denison, Edgar, Missouri Wildflowers, 5th Ed., MO Dept. of Conservation, Jefferson City, MO, 2001 3. Capon, Brian, Botany for Gardeners, Timber Press, Portland, OR, 1990 4. Goodwin, T.W., Editor, Chemistry & Biochemistry of Plant Pigments, Academic Press, London, 1965 A note about the microscope and photos: I use a Nikon Eclipse 200 trinocular microscope equipped with an Qioptiq digital coupler and a Nikon CP 4500 camera. All photos were processed in Adobe Photoshopï¿½ 7.0 and some are of differing size because I was looking for visual data and not necessarily the best picture.

Rudbeckia hirta Black-eyed Susan perennial Coneflower Home Page Rudbeckia hirta, commonly known as Coneflower or Black-eyed Susan, are a tough and sturdy perennial that blooms for long periods Rudbeckia is a genus made up of 23 species, commonly known as Black-eyed Susans, Brown-eyed Susans or Gloriosa Daisy (annual or bienniel). Rudbeckia may be annuals, biennials or perennials, all of which are native to the meadowlands and woodlands of North America. Rudbeckia blooms are typically daisy like flowers, sometimes with slightly reflexed (drooping) petals and a prominent cone (center). The flower petals of the Rudbeckia are often some shade of yellow with dark or black contrasting centers. (Note: Purple Coneflower is an Echinacea purpurea. Echinacea and Rudbeckia are two entirely different genus. Coneflower are Rudbeckia genus.) Rudbeckia hirta are easy to grow, virtually pest free and wonderful in fresh flower arrangements. Rudbeckia are an excellent perennial for sunny gardens but will bloom fairly well in part shade. Although they prefer a moderately fertile soil they are tolerant of clay also.

They are very tolerant of heat and humidity, but prefer some supplemental water in periods of extended drought. Blooming will also be improved when supplied with adequate water as well as full sun. In the hotter regions Rudbeckia coneflower will appreciate some afternoon sun and are quite happy with part shade. Rudbeckia hirta are short lived perennial that typically survive up to three years. They are perhaps better considered a biennial or an annual in colder regions that self seeds quite readily, and is considered invasive by some. Diligent deadheading will prevent self seeding and will also encourage additional blooming. If you prefer to leave the last blooms of autumn to go to seed, you will enjoy not only the interesting seed cones through winter but also the birds that enjoy the seeds. Plants can also be propagated by division. Rudbeckia plants that become taller or bushier than desired can be cut back to about 6” to generate fresh growth. Note that Rudbeckia are sometimes sold as annuals in cold regions, zone 3 and 4. Although they are a perennial or bienniel, they may not mature in time in your region to develop seeds.

Be sure to question your garden center if they are sold as annuals and be aware that the Rudbeckia may or may not reseed in your garden. Or you can learn to collect and germinate seeds yourself. Rudbeckia species hirta are distinguished by the “hair” that covers its leaves and stems. It is the largest group of Rudbeckia with many wonderful hybrids from tall to dwarf. The species plant is the true Black-eyed Susan but there are many varieties available. Rudbeckia tribola are the true Brown-eyed Susan that has less hairy foliage. Rudbeckia hirta Common Name: Black-eyed Susan, Gloriosa Daisy, Yellow Ox-eye Daisy Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial/bienniel Sun/Shade Requirements: Full sun Water Requirements: Medium to moist, will tolerate short periods of drought. Soil Requirements: Average, well drained, prefers organically rich moist soil but is adaptable. Tolerant of clay soil.

Growth Habit: Clump forming, well branched Bloom Time: June through September Bloom Color: Yellow to orange-yellow Bloom Form: 8-20 daisy like petals with dark brown center Foliage: Rough textured gray green leaves are lance shaped, 7” long and slightly hairy Fragrance: None Pest and Disease Resistance: No problems of note, somewhat susceptible to powdery mildew Fertilize: Work a slow release balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting, or apply a water soluble fertilizer every few weeks. Maintenance: Deadhead to encourage blooming and to minimize self seeding. Cut back to the ground in late winter, wait for spring to allow seeding. Other: Attracts butterflies and birds. Deer resistant. Hardiness: Zone 3,4,5,6,7 Rudbeckia hirta produces 3” daisy like flowers in bright golden yellow to orange-yellow. This is the true Black-eyed Susan species plant. The large flowers have up to twice the petals of the Brown-eyed Susan surrounding a dark chocolate brown center cone. The flower petals reflex slightly when fully opened. Blooms typically appear by early summer, completing its major bloom period in about a month. Blooms will often sporadically appear until fall.

Black-eyed Susan is also a short lived perennial that can be considered a biennial. It self seeds readily, which can be minimized by deadheading spent blooms. Although this Rudbeckia is short lived it will perpetuate by seed and can be naturalized easily. Flowers left on the plant will attract birds as the seeds develop. Strong upright stems are rough and bristly, 1 to 3 feet tall with 3-7” long slightly hairy leaves. Deer are not at all fond of they bristly and hairy foliage and will generally pass by a Rudbeckia for other treats. Black-eyed Susan are at home in a cutting garden or a wildflower garden. It is also somewhat salt tolerant and can be used in roadside gardens. There are several Rudbeckia hirta cultivars with large bold flowers of reds, orange, yellow, bronze and bicolors. The species Rudbeckia fulgida (Orange Coneflower) is quite similar in appearance, but usually blooms later, and has style-tips that are shorter and more rounded.

R udbeckia hirta ‘Autumn Colors’ Common Name: Black-eyed Susan, Gloriosa Daisy, Yellow Ox-eye Daisy Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial/biennial Sun/Shade Requirements: Full sun Water Requirements: Medium , will tolerate short periods of drought. Soil Requirements: Average, well drained, prefers organically rich moist soil but is adaptable. Tolerant of clay soil. Growth Habit: Clump forming, well branched Bloom Time: June through September Bloom Color: Yellow gold, orange, bronze red with a brown eye. Bloom Form: 8-20 daisy like petals with dark brown center Foliage: Rough textured dark green leaves are lance shaped, 7” long and slightly hairy Fragrance: None Pest and Disease Resistance: No problems of note, somewhat susceptible to powdery mildew Fertilize: Work a slow release balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting, or apply a water soluble fertilizer every few weeks. Maintenance: Deadhead to encourage blooming and to minimize self seeding. Cut back to the ground in late winter, wait for spring to allow seeding. Other: Attracts butterflies and birds. Deer resistant.

Hardiness: Zone 5,6,7,8 ‘Autumn Colors’ is a Rudbecki hybrid which is also a short lived perennial. Each plant may survive up to a few seasons but will self seed to perpetuate the plant in your garden. ‘Autumn Colors’ blooms produce a stunning range of color from yellow gold, orange and bronze red, the deeper colors surrounding the eye and blending to golden yellows at the petal tips. Each plant produces slightly different coloring. The flowers are large, 5-7” diameter, with a brown eye, borne singly on strong stems. ‘Autumn Colors’ will begin flowering in late June or July and generally continue until frost. In the warmest regions it may continue blooming into winter. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage additional blooming but will also limit self seeding. The final blooms of the season can be left to seed if you want to encourage additional plants to replace those that may perish over winter. The plant typically produces flowers the first year. ‘Autumn Colors’ is a compact, well branched perennial that produces blooms abundantly. A smaller stature makes ‘Autumn Colors’ ideal for front of the border and small scaled gardens.

The striking bloom color also makes an excellent choice for a specimen plant and cut flower. Do not over water or over fertilize. Feeding annually with a slow release fertilizer is best. Although not winter hardy in colder zones, it can be grown as a bienniel if allowed to self seed. ‘Autumn Colors’ has some similarity to ‘Rustic Colors’ but with a greater range of strong autumn colors and blooms just a bit later that ‘Rustic Colors’. Rudbeckia hirta ‘Cherokee Sunset’ Sun/Shade Requirements: Full sun Water Requirements: Medium , will tolerate short periods of drought. Soil Requirements: Average, well drained, prefers organically rich moist soil but is adaptable. Tolerant of clay soil. Growth Habit: Clump forming, well branched Bloom Time: July through frost Bloom Color: Yellow, orange, bronze, red and mahogany with a brown eye.

Bloom Form: Semi-double to double with dark brown center Foliage: Rough textured dark green leaves are lance shaped, 7” long and slightly hairy Fragrance: None Pest and Disease Resistance: No problems of note, somewhat susceptible to powdery mildew Fertilize: Work a slow release balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting, or apply a water soluble fertilizer every few weeks. Maintenance: Deadhead to encourage blooming and to minimize self seeding. Cut back to the ground in late winter, wait for spring to allow seeding. Other: Attracts butterflies and birds. Deer resistant. Hardiness: Zone 4,5,6,7,8 ‘Cherokee Sunset’ Rudbeckia flowers are bold, beautiful and variable. The 4” flowers may be double to semi-double with variable shadings of yellow, orange, bronze, red and mahogany with a dark mahogany eye. Blooming profusely for weeks they make a stunning statement no matter where you plant them. ‘Cherokee Sunset’ will bloom further into autumn than ‘Autumn Colors’ and ‘Goldsturm’. Although the plant is quite drought tolerant, regular watering will ensure the best and most prolific blooming.

Part shade will also reduce the flower size and number of blooms. The flowers can sometimes be more similar to a Gaillardia than a daisy when they produce full double blooms. This Rudbeckia may winter well in zone 4, but if it doesn’t it will self seed to perpetuate the plant in your gardens. ‘Cherokee Sunset’ is a short lived perennial or bienniel, but self seeds freely. Deadheading faded flowers will neaten the plant and encourage additional blooming, but to perpetuate the perennial in your garden the last blooms of the season should be left to sow seeds. Purchased seeds can be sown in early winter to early spring. The plant will grow quickly and flower in the first season. The plant is well branched with strong 30” stems for great cut flowers. Sun/Shade Requirements: Full sun Water Requirements: Medium , will tolerate short periods of drought. Soil Requirements: Average, well drained, prefers organically rich moist soil but is adaptable. Tolerant of clay soil. Growth Habit: Clump forming, well branched Bloom Time: July through frost Bloom Color: Yellow gold, bronze, mahogany blend, with a purple brown eye.

Bloom Form: Semi double quilled petals with dark brown center Foliage: Rough textured dark green leaves are lance shaped, 7” long and slightly hairy Fragrance: None Pest and Disease Resistance: No problems of note, somewhat susceptible to powdery mildew Fertilize: Work a slow release balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting, or apply a water soluble fertilizer every few weeks. Maintenance: Deadhead to encourage blooming and to minimize self seeding. Cut back to the ground in late winter, wait for spring to allow seeding. Divide mature clumps every 2-3 years in early spring. Other: Attracts butterflies and birds. Deer resistant. Hardiness: Zone 3,4,5,6,7,8,9 The uniquely quilled petals of ‘Chim Chiminee’ are a mix and blend of wonderful fall colors. Each bloom is a varied blend of yellow gold, bronze, orange red and mahogany. The large full flowers with broad variation in coloring creates an interesting cut flower arrangement. This Rudbeckia hybrid will do fairly well in light shade but does prefer full sun. Strong stems are well branched with great weather resistance making a superb garden perennial.

‘Chim Chiminee’ is a short lived perennial or bienniel, but self seeds freely. Deadheading faded flowers will neaten the plant and encourage additional blooming, but to perpetuate the perennial in your garden the last blooms of the season should be left to sow seeds. Purchased seeds can be sown in early winter to early spring. The plant will grow quickly and flower in the first season. A showy perennial of mid height, ‘Chim Chiminee’ is an excellent choice for containers, borders and naturalized gardens. When allowed to self seed, a beautiful array of bloom colors will give the appearance of several varieties. Rudbeckia hirta ‘Denver Daisy’ Sun/Shade Requirements: Full sun Water Requirements: Medium , will tolerate short periods of drought. Soil Requirements: Average, well drained, prefers organically rich moist soil but is adaptable. Tolerant of clay soil. Growth Habit: Clump forming, well branched Bloom Time: June through September Bloom Color: Yellow gold, orange, bronze red with a brown eye.

Bloom Form: Semi double daisy like petals with dark brown center Foliage: Rough textured dark green leaves are lance shaped, 7” long and slightly hairy Fragrance: None Pest and Disease Resistance: No problems of note, somewhat susceptible to powdery mildew Fertilize: Work a slow release balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting, or apply a water soluble fertilizer every few weeks. Maintenance: Deadhead to encourage blooming and to minimize self seeding. Cut back to the ground in late winter, wait for spring to allow seeding. Other: Attracts butterflies and birds. Deer resistant. Hardiness: Zone 5,6,7,8,9 ‘Denver Daisy’ Rudbeckia was named to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Denver Colorado. It was bred from the native species plant Rudbeckia hirta and the cultivar ‘Prairie Sun’. The bright yellow blooms are blended with a rich mahogany red halo surrounding a brown center and are at least 4” diameter. It blooms profusely all summer creating a bright spectacular display, one of the longer blooming Rudbeckia. . ‘Denver Daisy’ is a short lived perennial or bienniel, but self seeds freely.

Deadheading faded flowers will neaten the plant and encourage additional blooming, but to perpetuate the perennial in your garden the last blooms of the season should be left to sow seeds. Purchased seeds can be sown in early winter to early spring. The plant will grow quickly and flower in the first season. The stems are strong and well branched and the plant is quite heat resistant. But in the hottest regions it will enjoy some afternoon shade. Be sure to water at least weekly in extended hot periods, but do not over water. An excellent flower for containers, borders or naturalized gardens. Stunning in a fresh floral arrangement. Rudbeckia hirta ‘Indian Summer’ Sun/Shade Requirements: Full sun Water Requirements: Medium , will tolerate short periods of drought. Soil Requirements: Average, well drained, prefers organically rich moist soil but is adaptable. Tolerant of clay soil. Growth Habit: Clump forming, well branched Bloom Time: June through frost Bloom Color: Bright yellow petal rays that deepen toward the center, with a purple brown eye.

Bloom Form: 8-20 daisy like petals with dark brown center Foliage: Rough textured dark green leaves are lance shaped, 7” long and slightly hairy Fragrance: None Pest and Disease Resistance: No problems of note, somewhat susceptible to powdery mildew Fertilize: Work a slow release balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting, or apply a water soluble fertilizer every few weeks. Maintenance: Deadhead to encourage blooming and to minimize self seeding. Cut back to the ground in late winter, wait for spring to allow seeding. Other: Attracts butterflies and birds. Deer resistant. Hardiness: Zone 3,4,5,6,7,8 ‘Indian Summer’ Rudbeckia’s bright yellow blooms are extra large, 6-9” in diameter and blooms freely all summer. The classic Black-eyed Susan flowers are produced singly on strong stiff stems that are one to three feet tall, a bit taller than most Rudbeckia varieties. The plant is well branched and bushy and the foliage turns slightly mahogany in fall. A strong and vigorous plant, ‘Indian Summer’ is quite weather resistant. The plant will bloom in the first season if planted early in the spring.

‘Indian Summer’ is a short lived perennial or bienniel, but self seeds freely. Deadheading faded flowers will neaten the plant and encourage additional blooming, but to perpetuate the perennial in your garden the last blooms of the season should be left to sow seeds. The bold color and large flowers of ‘Indian Summer’ are perfect for long lasting cut flowers or dried flowers and make a bold statement in your garden. Plant in drifts, groups, or singly as an accent. Rudbeckia will also naturalize easily. Rudbeckia hirta ‘Irish Eyes’ Sun/Shade Requirements: Full sun Water Requirements: Medium , will tolerate short periods of drought. Soil Requirements: Average, well drained, prefers organically rich moist soil but is adaptable. Tolerant of clay soil. Growth Habit: Clump forming, well branched and upright Bloom Time: June through frost Bloom Color: Bright yellow petal rays that deepen toward the center, with a purple brown eye.

Bloom Form: 8-20 daisy like petals with dark brown center Foliage: Rough textured dark green leaves are lance shaped, 7” long and slightly hairy Fragrance: None Pest and Disease Resistance: No problems of note, somewhat susceptible to powdery mildew Fertilize: Work a slow release balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting, or apply a water soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Maintenance: Deadhead to encourage blooming and to minimize self seeding. Cut back to the ground in late winter, wait for spring to allow seeding. Other: Attracts butterflies and birds. Deer resistant. Hardiness: Zone 3,4,5,6,7,8,9 ‘Irish Eyes’ is a very unique Rudbeckia flower that is ideal for planting where it can be appreciated from close up. The very large flowers have bright golden petals that are a deeper golden orange near the center, surrounding a green center disk. The 5” flowers are quite captivating and a bit more subtle than the typical Black-eyed Susan. Flowers are borne singly on 24” strong stems.

A container full of ‘Irish Eyes’ is perfect at an entry or on the patio, they do very well in a container. Profuse blooming continues for weeks, removing spent flowers will encourage continued blooming. Flowers left to dry at the end of season will reseed to replace plants that may be lost over winter. ‘Irish Eyes’ will bloom the first year if started from seed early in spring or the previous autumn. The plant has a nice upright form and is a nice size for front or middle of the border and mixes well with taller bold Rudbeckia or perennials. Be sure to give ‘Irish Eyes’ regular water but do not over water. If using water soluble fertilizer, apply every two to three weeks. Rudbeckia hirta ‘Maya’ Sun/Shade Requirements: Full sun Water Requirements: Medium , will tolerate short periods of drought. Soil Requirements: Average, well drained, prefers organically rich moist soil but is adaptable. Tolerant of clay soil. Growth Habit: Clump forming, well branched, compact dwarf Bloom Time: June through frost Bloom Color: Yellow with a brown eye.

Bloom Form: Fully double with dark brown center Foliage: Rough textured gray green leaves are lance shaped and slightly hairy Fragrance: None Pest and Disease Resistance: No problems of note, somewhat susceptible to powdery mildew Fertilize: Work a slow release balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting, or apply a water soluble fertilizer every few weeks. Maintenance: Deadhead to encourage blooming and to minimize self seeding. Cut back to the ground in late winter, wait for spring to allow seeding. Divide mature clumps every 2-3 years in early spring. Other: Attracts butterflies and birds. Deer resistant. Hardiness: Zone 5,6,7,8,9 ‘Maya’ Rudbeckia is a delightful dwarf hybrid with brilliant gold blooms. Fully double 4 inch blooms are more reminiscent of garden mums or marigold than daisies. The compact plants are suitable for any garden or the front of the border. The full well branched habit and excellent performance in the garden will make it one of your favorites. Sturdy 20 inch stems will give you lovely cut flowers for fresh arrangements. The plant will bloom in the first season if planted early in the spring.

‘Maya’ is a short lived perennial or bienniel, but self seeds freely. Deadheading faded flowers will neaten the plant and encourage additional blooming, but to perpetuate the perennial in your garden the last blooms of the season should be left to sow seeds Rudbeckia hirta ‘Prairie Sun’ Sun/Shade Requirements: Full sun Water Requirements: Medium , will tolerate short periods of drought. Soil Requirements: Average, well drained, prefers organically rich moist soil but is adaptable. Tolerant of clay soil. Growth Habit: Clump forming, upright Bloom Time: June through frost Bloom Color: Bright yellow petal rays that deepen to golden orange toward the center, with a green eye. Bloom Form: 8-20 large daisy like petals with dark brown center Foliage: Rough textured dark green leaves are lance shaped, up to 7” long and slightly hairy Fragrance: None Pest and Disease Resistance: No problems of note, somewhat susceptible to powdery mildew Fertilize: Work a slow release balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting, or apply a water soluble fertilizer every few weeks. Maintenance: Deadhead to encourage blooming and to minimize self seeding.

Cut back to the ground in late winter, wait for spring to allow seeding. Other: Attracts butterflies and birds. Deer resistant. Hardiness: Zone 5,6,7,8,9 ‘Prairie Sun’ Rudbeckia is nicely upright with 3 foot strong stem. Large 5” inch flowers are borne singly on each stem all summer. ‘Prairie Sun’s’ flower petals are a cheery bright golden orange with yellow tips, radiating from a prominent light green center button cone. This Rudbeckia loves to bloom and will bloom even more profusely if the spent flowers are deadheaded. The plant will bloom in the first season if planted early in the spring. ‘Prairie Sun’ is a short lived perennial or bienniel, but self seeds freely. Deadheading faded flowers will neaten the plant and encourage additional blooming, but to perpetuate the perennial in your garden the last blooms of the season should be left to sow seeds. Plant ‘Prairie Sun’ in a sunny border to create bright waves of color or as a cheery accent plant that remains fresh through the season. A stunning cut or dried flower.

Rudbeckia hirta ‘Tiger Eye’ Sun/Shade Requirements: Full sun Water Requirements: Medium , will tolerate short periods of drought. Soil Requirements: Average, well drained, prefers organically rich moist soil but is adaptable. Tolerant of clay soil. Growth Habit: Clump forming, well branched Bloom Time: June through frost Bloom Color: Bright yellow orange petal rays that deepen toward the center, with a dark brown eye. Bloom Form: Single to semi double daisy like petals with dark brown center Foliage: Rough textured dark green leaves are lance shaped, 7” long and slightly hairy Fragrance: None Pest and Disease Resistance: No problems of note, somewhat susceptible to powdery mildew Fertilize: Work a slow release balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting, or apply a water soluble fertilizer every few weeks. Maintenance: Deadhead to encourage blooming and to minimize self seeding. Cut back to the ground in late winter, wait for spring to allow seeding. Other: Attracts butterflies and birds. Deer resistant. Hardiness: Zone 6,7,8, 9 ‘Tiger Eye’ Rudbeckia is a hybrid with superior uniformity in its blooms.

Large 4” blooms are semi double in bright orange gold with a deeper gold center halo and a brown button eye. ‘Tiger Eye’ may be the most prolific, reliable and uniform bloomer of the Rudbeckia hirta hybrids. Give it full sun, weekly water and enough space for good air circulation and the plant will bloom nonstop for weeks and weeks. The resistance to powdery mildew is improved in this hybrid which does aid the blooming. A well branched, uniform plant creates a pleasing appearance. In most cases ‘Tiger Eye’ will be a reseeding annual but will often survive winter in warmer regions. In ideal conditions ‘Tiger Eye’ will live at least 3 years. Some afternoon shade in the hottest regions should benefit the plant without sacrificing blooms. The plant will bloom in the first season if planted early in the spring. ‘Tiger Eye’ is a short lived perennial or bienniel, but self seeds freely. Deadheading faded flowers will neaten the plant and encourage additional blooming, but to perpetuate the perennial in your garden the last blooms of the season should be left to sow seeds.

Black-eyed Susan Black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia Add a pool of sunshine to the garden with a massed planting of black-eyed Susan. From midsummer, these tough native plants bloom their golden heads off in sun or light shade and mix well with other perennials, annuals, and shrubs. Tall varieties look especially appropriate among shrubs, which in turn provide support. Add black-eyed Susans to wildflower meadows or native plant gardens for a naturalized look. Average soil is sufficient for black-eyed Susans, but it should be able to hold moisture fairly well. Oops, we're sorry. Something went wrong. Please try again later. Oops, we're sorry. Something went wrong. Please try again later. Share your take on this idea! Upload your photo here. From 1 to 20 feet Width: 1-1/2 to 3 feet wide, depending on variety Flower Color: how to grow Black-eyed Susan Propagation more varieties for Black-eyed Susan 'Autumn Colors' black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia 'Autumn Colors' is an award-winning annual series that bears 5-inch-wide gold flowers flushed with bronze, red, and rust. It grows 2 feet tall.

Brown-eyed Susan Rudbeckia triloba is a North American native biennial or short-lived perennial that has clusters of small yellow flowers in summer and autumn. It grows 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Zones 4-7 'Goldsturm' black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm' is one of the most popular perennials of all time. It offers 3- to 4-inch bright yellow daisies, accented with a dark brown cone from midsummer to fall. It reaches 2 feet tall and is hardy in Zones 4-9. 'Indian Summer' black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta 'Indian Summer' features bright golden flowers and hairy foliage. It grows 3 feet tall and blooms from summer to frost. Zones 3-7, but is often grown as an annual. 'Maya' black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia 'Maya' is an annual, dwarf variety with golden-yellow double flowers. It grows 18 inches tall. 'Prairie Sun' black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta 'Prairie Sun' features yellow-orange flowers from summer to frost.

It's hardy in Zones 3-8, but it's usually grown as an annual. 'Radiance' black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia 'Radiance' is usually grown as an annual and offers distinct double flowers with quilled petals. It grows 18 inches tall. 'Sonora' black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia 'Sonora' is an annual type with large mahogany petals tipped in yellow. It grows 20 inches tall. 'Toto Lemon' black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia 'Toto Lemon' is a dwarf annual selection with cheery bright yellow blooms all summer. It grows 15 inches tall. 'Toto Rustic' black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia 'Toto Rustic' is an annual type that bears with golden blooms with rich burgundy-red centers. It grows 15 inches tall. plant Black-eyed Susan with Maryland State Flower - Black-Eyed Susan - ProFlowers Blog July to August History Swedish naturalist, Carl Linnaeus, created the botanical name of the Black-Eyed Susan after his son Olav Rudbeck. Fun Fact A wash made from the root of the Susan is sometimes used as a natural pain reliever for snakebites, swelling and sores.

From its limelight appearance in the Preakness Stakes Horse Race to its roadside role in welcoming visitors to the state, the Black-Eyed Susan is a ubiquitous – and delightful – ambassador for the state of Maryland. Named the Maryland state flower in 1918, the sunny, open-faced flower is characterized by its charm and symbolism. It shares the same colors as the state flag of Maryland. It also has 13 petals – the same number of original American colonies, of which Maryland was a part. In a state known more for its love of horse racing than flowers, the Black-Eyed-Susan earns a surprising amount of respect. Black-Eyed Susan is the name of a filly race that precedes the Preakness and the name of the official Preakness cocktail (though the drink contains no actual flower parts). Each year, the winner of the Preakness is festooned with a blanket made out of Black-Eyed Susan flowers. Maryland’s state flower grows easily with little attention. Black-Eyed Susans can reach heights between 3 to 6 feet and often grow in abundance in the wild, making it a favorite of wildflower photographers.

Its sunny, daisy-like appearance centers on a raised, dark sphere that is surrounded by yellow and gold ray-shaped petals. All About Black-Eyed Susans All About Black-Eyed Susans Wild American Beauty: The Black-Eyed Susan By Ray Allen, Founder of AmericanMeadows.com Learn About... The Vine? Who was Susan anyhow? And exactly what was her relationship with Sweet William? Ever wonder about one of America's favorite wildflowers? Who was Black-Eyed Susan? Her story is one of the grand romantic tales of the wildflowers . And beyond legend, her name graces several of our most important and popular wildflower species. (By the way, the flower's eye, or center, is not really black; it's dark brown, but that's not important.) Who was she? Well, no one's sure, but the legend says it all comes from an Old English poem of the post-Elizabethan era entitled simply, "Black-Eyed Susan," written by a very famous poet of the day named John Gay, 1685-1732. (Painting at right by Winslow Homer.): All in the downs, the fleet was moored, Banners waving in the wind.

When Black-Eyed Susan came aboard, and eyed the burly men. "Tell me ye sailors, tell me true Does my Sweet William sail with you?" There are several stanzas, explaining that her William was on board, "high upon the yardarm", and quickly scrambled down for a fond farewell with his lady love. It seems he was off to the high seas, but promised ardently to be safe and true: Though battle call me from thy arms Let not my pretty Susan mourn; Though cannons roar, yet safe from harms William shall to his Dear return. Love turns aside the balls that round me fly Lest precious tears should drop from Susan's eye. This charming poem tells one of the great "Legends of Love" in our wildflowers , and every summer even today, it plays out just as the poem describes. Here's how it works: Even though it's not a native, if you seed wild Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus) with common Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) , they'll bloom beautifully for you at exactly the same time.

Because both are basically biennials, and her gold plus his bright reds and purples blooming together is a sight to gladden any gardener's heart. Since Susan is a North American native, this tale tells us English colonists must have given the golden beauty her name when they arrived in the New World. However, since most all the Black-Eyed Susan species are native to the Great Plains, plant experts have wondered for years how our colonists on the east coast could have given this wildflower the name it's had for centuries. But some recent research in Maryland (where "Susan" serves as the State Flower) shows that the plant was growing there during the colonial period. So like today, Black-Eyed Susans were probably across the continent from the beginning. Today, they are common in all 50 states and across Canada. The Botanical Name The genus name for all Black-Eyed Susans is Rudbeckia. It's for the Rudbecks, a very famous Swedish father and son both named Olof.

Olof the Elder (shown in the photo) lived from 1630-1702 and was a world- famous scientist known mostly for his accomplishments in medicine (anatomy) and liguistics, but was also known for studies in music and botany. Throughout his career, he had the strong support of Sweden's famous Queen Christina, and was a celebrity at her court. He established the first botanical garden in Sweden, which was originally called Rudbeck's Garden. His son, Olof the Younger (1660-1740) continued many of the father's studies, and became almost as famous in his time as a scientist and professor. One of his best-known students was another Swedish scientist, Carolus Linneaus, the man who devised our system of plant nomenclature. So it's no surprise that Linneaus gave the name "Rudbeckia" to this important group of plants. By the way, a hundred years after the establishment of "Rudbeck's Garden," it was renamed for Linneaus. And a modern descendant of the Rudbecks is Alfred Nobel, originator of the Nobel Prizes.

So it's safe to say that our lowly, common roadside "weed" has a very prestigious name. Susan in Our National Culture Ever since the beginning, the Black-Eyed Susan has figured prominently in things American. Every budding nature photographer has a prized photo, usually with a beautiful butterfly on a Black-Eyed Susan . After all, they're beautiful, and they're everywhere. But even the most sophisticated have chosen the "Susan" as a decorative motif. No less than Louis Comfort Tiffany himself immortalized this common wildflower along with much more aristocratic lilies , peonies , irises , and roses with a magnificent "Tiffany Lamp," now among the most prized American antiques. And the most visible annual celebration of our own Black-Eyed Susan is in the Sport of Kings, horse-racing. Each year, we all see the "Run for the Roses" which is the Kentucky Derby. But that's not the only famous run. The "Run for the Black-Eyed Susans" is at Baltimore's Preakness Stakes, as Maryland honors its state flower, and a horseshoe arrangement of "Susans" is placed around the winning horse's neck.

At the Preakness, Black-Eyed Susans are everywhere! The Several Species, all North America's own Unlike so many others, The Rudbeckias are not a worldwide group of plants. All of the approximately 30 species are North American natives, making the Black-Eyed Susan a decidedly American (and Canadian) wildflower. Here are the most important species: Our native Rudbeckias (Black-eyed Susans) and their famous hybrids Wildflower Species Description and Height of Wildflower Sample Hybrids from wildflower species A shorter variety to 18" tall with 1 ½-3" flowers. "Viette's Little Suzy" Drooping gold flowers on plants 3-4 ft. tall. "Goldquelle" Black-Eyed Susan with blunt petals. 4 ½ ft. "Henry Eilers" Rudbeckia hirta (front) This is the gorgeous gold wildflower you see everywhere—growing on its own, often in great golden sheets of color along the highway, in unused fields, often in "disturbed ground" and maybe in your own backyard. Generations of American children have picked them in proud bouquets, and they figure importantly in our culture.

With apologies to our Canadian neighbors, I've always thought it is the quintessential American wildflower, since it is so widespread and so common, yet so beautiful, it symbolizes the American ideal of opportunity for all, enjoyed and available to everyone from our earliest natives and settlers to every American child alive today. It's definitely my favorite. Best of all, for gardeners, it's a snap to grow from seed, and is a staple of any good wildflower seed mixture . Because these beautiful flowers can easily be one of the major color-makers in any North American wildflower garden. However, the exact way it performs depends on where you live. It usually grows as a biennial, which means it takes two years to bloom from seed. Biennials live only two years, and bloom only their second season, then die after reseeding heavily. However, in some regions, R. hirta grows as an annual, blooming the first year. In other areas, experts insist it's perennial. In all my years of wildflower gardening, I've never seen it perform as a perennial. But most of my gardening has been in very warm (Florida) or very cold (Vermont) eastern U.S. climates.

Two things for sure: In Vermont, Rudbeckia hirta is a classic biennial. From fall or spring seeding, it germinates quickly, forming a basal rosette of its signature "hairy" green leaves, and that's all it does. The elegant bloom stalks arise the second summer. In Florida, with no frost, the same seeding will bring bloom late in the summer, which leads many southern gardeners to consider the plant an annual. All this means is that it will bloom the first year as long as the growing season is long enough. For example, garden expert Allan Armitage, who lives in Georgia, calls the common wildflower an annual, and reports that Rudbeckia hirta , seeded naturally in the fall, begins blooming for him and his wife (Susan) the first week of June, and continues for two months. R. hirta gloriosa, The Gloriosa Daisy Rudbeckia hirta (front) The short life of the non-perennial form tempted many hybridizers to try to create a more-perennial plant from this popular wildflower. The most successful, and a sensation when it appeared, was The Gloriosa Daisy , introduced by the W.

Atlee Burpee Seed Company in the 1950's. This strain, still widely grown from seed, creates a plant a bit larger than the common wildflower, with blooms that are totally different. First of all, the flowers are about three times the size of the wildflower's blooms—often 6" across. And " Gloriosas " are always a mixture of pure yellow and splashy bicolors, most with dark mahogany red splotches at the base of the petals, creating a stunning pinwheel effect. Others in the mix are fully double. But all the flowers are large, making the Gloriosa strain a big favorite. However, while the blooms are spectacular, the perennial qualities are weak. Most stands of Gloriosa Daisy will "run out" in about 2-3 years in a very cold climate, earning them the dreaded name, "short-lived perennial." For dependably perennial plants, the hybridizers had to turn to other Rudbeckia species. Rudbeckia fulgida, the great look-alike perennial wildflower, and R. "Goldsturm" The great confusion among the Rudbeckias arises from the fact that the native biennial ( R.

hirta ) and an important hardy perennial species ( R. fulgida ) look almost exactly alike. So many laymen don't realize that the beautiful roadside "weeds" they see are botanically different from the long-blooming perennial clumps seen in almost all American perennial gardens—from home gardens to those "decorative plantings" at shopping malls and gas stations. They're everywhere, since the perennial Black-Eyed Susans are some of the most useful landscape plants of them all, when it comes to dependable every-year long-blooming mid-summer color. R. fulgida is the native base for most of the hybridized perennial Black-Eyed Susans , and they descend from various "varieties" of the species. This means naturally-occurring variations, but still the same basic plant.

Rudbeckia fulgida has four recognized varieties, botanically introduced with the abbreviation, "var." Here are the two important ones you may see at the garden center or in catalogs: Rudbeckia fulgida var sullivantii Rudbeckia 'Goldsturm' This variety is the parent of the king of all the commercial perennials, a plant commonly called Rudbeckia 'Goldsturm'. That's German for "gold storm," and a gold storm it is. This fantastically successful perennial introduction, developed in Germany, is one of the most popular and widely-planted flowering plants in America, and justly so. The flowers are clear, golden yellow, and a bit larger than the wildflower, but very much the same. Each plant, once it matures, puts up a whole bouquet (probably 20) of these big flowers and holds them in bloom for weeks, even in the heat of mid-summer. This is the kind of plant every perennial gardener loves. Today, "Goldsturm" is super-popular worldwide.

Rudbeckia fulgida var speciosa This variety of the species (sometimes referred to as var newmanii) is much the same as the one above, and is the parent of several other well-known garden perennials including "Viette's Little Suzy." It has similar standard Black-Eyed Susan blooms, but is shorter, growing to only about 18". This one is named after a famous family of hybridizers in the US, descended from Martin Viette, a Swiss gardener who arrived on Long Island in 1920. He and his family have created a long list of excellent new perennials, and this is one of them. C. Rudbeckia lacinata, the very tall parent of "Golden Glow" Rudbeckia lacinata 'Golden Glow' It grows so tall in the wild (up to 9ft.) it's often assumed to be a sunflower, but it is not. The flowers are very large with drooping petals, colored a pale lemon yellow. The species can be quite impressive in a wildflower meadow, since the big flowers and petals often flutter' in the breeze, standing above other plants. But it's too big for most gardens.

This species is best known as the wild parent of one of your great-grandmother's favorite flowers, Golden Glow. It is a tall plant, up to 5 ft, which was introduced in 1894. The yellow blooms are fully double, and resemble a bright yellow chrysanthemum. Not very popular and not so well known today, they, like the parents, are often assumed to be short sunflowers or tall mums. Golden Glow forms clusters of flowers on the tall stems which are famous for "toppling over" as the flowers open. Millions of gardeners have rigged stakes to keep old Golden Glow plants standing tall with their beautiful blooms. They are some of the toughest, longest-lasting perennials in old gardens. A shorter version is called "Golden Drop," and grows to only 2-3 feet. E. Rudbeckia nitida, another tall one with large, golden flowers. This species is tall like R. lacinata and has a distinctive greenish color in its center. From this wild beauty, the hybridizers have created a sensational plant called R. nitida "Herbstsonne", a tall (60-72") perennial with colossal golden flowers.

The petals are wide and beautiful, and droop somewhat, but the plant makes a spectacular, elegant show. Another hybrid called "Goldquelle" is shorter with double flowers. F. Rudbeckia subtomentosa, another wild one with somewhat different flowers. This Black-eyed susan is native to the central US from Wisconsin to Texas. It grows to only about 4 ½ ft, and its flowers are distinguished by blunt tips on each petal. A commercial cultivar from this species is "Henry Eilers", which grows to 4 feet and has large, tubular petals with blunt tips. The Black-Eyed Susan Vine is not Trading on the fame of the real thing, someone named a small tropical vine that grows easily indoors the "Black-Eyed Susan Vine." Surely that was smart marketing, but that little vine with its little yellow trumpet blooms is Thunbergia alata , nowhere near the Rudbeckia genus. Close Relatives, other "Coneflowers" Though the vine has nothing in common but flower color, there are other North American wildflowers who are close relatives. In fact, several of them were once considered Rudbeckias, but are now more correctly classified in their own genus.

The now very famous medicinal, Echinacea and all its hybrids are called "Coneflowers," with Echinacea purpurea , the Purple Coneflower, as the best known. The Prairie Coneflower (yellow) and Mexican Hat (red), both named Ratibida columnaris, are closely related, as is the Grey-Headed Coneflower, Ratibida pinnata . These are all close relatives, but not Rudbeckias. Maryland State Flower - Facts About Black-eyed Susan Buy From OurStores Maryland State Flower The Black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta, (the species in the genus Rudbeckia) is the Maryland State Flower. The Black-eyed Susan was designated the state flower of Maryland on April 18, 1918 and is found throughout the United States. Black-eyed Susan is a flowering plant in the family Asteraceae and is an upright annual (sometimes biennial or perennial) native to most of North America. It is one of many plants with the common name Black-eyed Susan. The genus Rudbeckia has a number of species, among which Rudbeckia hirta is one.

Kingdom Species Rudbeckia hirta - black-eyed Susan Black-eyed Susan flowers are among the most cherished state flowers. They have colorful yellow-gold single petals that are often two to four inches across, and encircling their large black centers. They bloom with solitary terminal heads on long peduncles and feature eight to twenty-one yellow-orange ray florets and dark purple to brownish disk florets. The disk is ovoid in shape and up to 0.8 inch across. The ligules of the Black-eyed Susan are about 1.5 inch long. The involucral bracts are sometimes very elongated, and have long, stiff hairs. There are about 90 varieties of Black-eyed-Susan. The Black-eyed Susan flower is the best known of the Coneflowers, so named because their centers are cone shaped and the petals bend downward from the center which accentuates the cone. There are many online florists who deliver flowers to Maryland. You can send flowers, plants of your choice to your loved ones living in Maryland or from Maryland to other locations across the United States of America through these popular Maryland Online Florists .

Facts About Black-eyed Susan Some of the varieties of the Black-eyed Susan - Rudbeckia hirta flowers are: Rudbeckia hirta var. angustifolia native to Southeastern United States (South Carolina to Texas); Rudbeckia hirta var. floridana, endemic to Florida; Rudbeckia hirta var. hirta, native to Northeastern United States (Maine to Alabama). Black-eyed Susans flowers are also called as Gloriosa Daisy, owing to their yellow, orange, and gold colors. Black-eyed Susan flowers from June to August. Black-eyed Susan plants can reach 1-2 m in height, and the stems are erect, much branched, and hispid. Black-eyed Susans leaves are alternate, hispid, entire or shallow-toothed margins, and vary in size and shape. The lower leaves of the Black-eyed Susan plant are oblanceolate to elliptic, up to 6 inches long, and are on petioles. The mid-stem leaves of the Black-eyed Susans plant are lance-linear to oblong, and sessile. Native to North America, Black Eyed Susan flowers are prolific wildflowers that have become popular in the home flower garden.

Blackeyed Susan flower plant is a host plant for the Silvery Checkerspot butterfly caterpillar. Black-eyed Susan typically stays in a basal rosette its first year, and then produces upright branching stems with flowers in the second year. Subscribe Get 10% off on pickupflowers.com explore Black-Eyed Susan | Flowers and Plants for Your Garden | HGTV Flowers Plants Black Eyed Susan Provides Vivid Summer Color Rudbeckia fulgida var. deamii , is perfect for the naturalistic prairie style planting schemes that are becoming popular. More drought-tolerant than most rudbeckias, it produces masses of yellow daisy-like flowers from mid-summer to mid-fall. ©2011, Dorling Kindersley Limited 2011, Dorling Kindersley Limited Tuck spots of living sunshine into your landscape with the cheery blooms of black-eyed Susan. Low-maintenance and lovely, black-eyed Susan flowers start opening in early summer and keep on coming until fall frost. Most black-eyed Susan plants are perennial, although some are short-lived at best. Happily, many black-eyed Susans self-sow readily, ensuring a continued presence in the garden.

Black-eyed Susan plants boast sturdy constitutions, offering winter hardiness in Zones 3 to 10. Give this bright bloomer a spot in full sun, although in hottest regions, a little afternoon shade won’t hurt. Plants survive in a partly shade location, but flower number will be reduced. Black-eyed Susan isn’t picky about soil and thrives in average soil that drains well. This perky perennial, especially Rudbeckia fulgida, is drought-tolerant once established. Water newly-planted black-eyed Susans until they’re steadily showing new growth, then gradually reduce moisture. Black-eyed Susan makes a great addition to a low-maintenance, low water-use landscape. Plant plenty of black-eyed Susans and you’ll have ample blossoms to pick for bouquets. Black-eyed Susan flowers beckon pollinators by the dozen, including all kinds of bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. Fuzzy, almost bristly leaves put black-eyed Susan on the do-not-disturb list for deer and rabbits. On average, black-eyed Susan plants grow 24 to 36 inches tall and wide. If plants are happy, they can spread somewhat aggressively with underground stems and self-sowing.

Limit the spread by dividing clumps every four to five years. Snipping spent blooms in fall prevents self-seeding. But if you leave faded flowers in place, they’ll add winter interest to the landscape and attract seed-eating birds. Black-eyed Susan plants bring a coarse texture to the garden. Pair them with fine-textured ornamental grasses and prairie blazing star to mimic their native prairie environs. Black-eyed Susan comes into its own in autumn, making it a wonderful planting companion for Russian sage and autumn sedums. Look for black-eyed Susan flowers in a variety of sizes and colors. The common type, Rudbeckia fulgida, features the classic black-eyed Susan flower form, with a dark button center surrounded by a sunburst of golden petals. Gloriosa daisies (Rudbeckia hirta) open flowers with a blend of hues, including bronze, russet and orange. 'Prairie Sun' gloriosa daisy reveals a green center encircled with gold and yellow petals. If you like the look of black-eyed Susan flowers, don’t miss an annual vine that goes by the same name: black-eyed Susan vine.

It opens trumpet-shaped blooms with gold, orange or white petals and, in most cases, a dark-colored throat. These vines are tropical natives and grow easily from seed, but need warm soil to take off. Black-Eyed Susan Vine | Types of Groundcovers and Vine Plants | HGTV Flowers Plants Vines Climbing Plants Climbing Black-Eyed Susan Cheery yellow flowers with a distinctive black eye cover this vigorous climber from midsummer to autumn. It is superb in a large container in a sunny spot. ©2011, Dorling Kindersley Limited 2011, Dorling Kindersley Limited Cheery yellow flowers with a distinctive black eye cover this vigorous climber from midsummer to autumn. It is superb in a large container in a sunny spot. Take your garden to new heights with black-eyed Susan vines (Thunbergia alata). This pretty climber earns its name because the flowers boast coloring similar to the classic black-eyed Susan, with golden petals surrounding a dark eye. But that’s where the resemblance ends, because black-eyed Susan vine flowers have five petals and an almost starry shape. Black-eyed Susan vine is an easy-to-grow annual that yields months of color from inexpensive seeds.

It’s a natural choice for clambering up a trellis or rambling down a slope as a ground-cover. Stems trail 8 to 10 feet in a single growing season, stopped in their footsteps only by frost. In frost-free areas, like Zones 10 and 11, vines can stretch to 20 feet. Native to Africa, Madagascar and Southern Asia, black-eyed Susan vine is known as a fast-growing vine that flowers nonstop. The same holds true in temperate zones, where the vine grows as an annual. Fast-growing black-eyed Susan vines twine around anything they can, including stems of other plants. Tuck black-eyed Susan vine where it won’t scale and smother cherished plants, like roses, butterfly bush or other perennials. Leaves of black-eyed Susan vine have a distinct triangular shape that’s eye-catching. Flowers not only open in the celebrated gold petal and dark center combination, but also in other hues. White, canary yellow and orange are common blossom colors. A newer introduction offers blooms in mixed shades of rose, ivory, salmon and apricot—all with a dark eye. The shading is spectacular on a vine in full flower.

Despite the name, some black-eyed Susan vine varieties open blooms that lack the contrasting dark center. In the landscape, count on black-eyed Susan vines to blanket a trellis or tuteur with ease. The stems twine and wrap around supports and can wend their way along nearly any structure. Black-eyed Susan vine flowers look especially pretty in a container garden on a pot-size obelisk. Or use them in hanging baskets to create cascades of eye-catching blooms. Give black-eyed Susan vines a spot in full sun to part shade. Afternoon shade is essential in hottest zones. Soil rich in organic matter that drains well causes black-eyed Susan vine to grow fastest. Provide adequate moisture—regular watering on a weekly basis for in-ground plants. With pots, water daily once summer heats up. High heat slows down blooming, so plants usually flower strongest from late summer into fall. Black-eyed Susan vine is easy to start from seed. Soil must be warm for seed to germinate. Wait until all danger of frost is past before sowing seed outdoors, or start it earlier inside. Some gardeners recommend soaking seeds overnight before sowing to soften the seed coat. Black-eyed Susan vine seeds are slow to germinate.

You won’t see any sprouts for two to three weeks. Protect young seedlings from slugs. Perennial Winner: Black-Eyed Susan Flower - Southern Living Perennial Winner: Black-Eyed Susan Flower Perennial Winner: Black-Eyed Susan Flower This native flower tops the list for easy, long-lasting color. Steve Bender Subscribe Hurray for Heinrich Hagemann! Now that's a sentence you don't say every day. In fact, I'll wager that none of you has uttered it in the last 10 years. But we all should applaud our good buddy Heinrich, because it was his discerning eye that gave us one of the finest no-fuss flowers for summer--'Goldsturm' yellow coneflower. How It Started Our story begins in 1937 in what is now the Czech Republic. Nurseryman Heinrich Hagemann spies a superior form of yellow coneflower (known to many Southerners as black-eyed Susan). He notes that this form is shorter and more compact than the ordinary species (Rudbeckia fulgida) and flaunts larger, showier flowers. Heinrich convinces his boss in Germany to propagate and market his fabulous find.

Unfortunately, World War II intervenes, causing severe inconvenience for everybody. Finally, in 1949, 'Goldsturm' debuts. It's a bigger hit than Marlene Dietrich--well, at least among gardeners. Fifty years later in the U.S., the Perennial Plant Association (PPA) names 'Goldsturm' their Perennial Plant of the Year. Obviously, the PPA doesn't make snap decisions. Let's Get Technical 'Goldsturm' is a named selection of a variety of yellow coneflower called sullivantii. Compared to the straight species, sullivantii is shorter, and its leaves grow progressively smaller as they go up the stem. 'Goldsturm' stands 24 to 30 inches tall. Each 3-inch bloom consists of golden yellow petals surrounding a black-to-dark brown cone. Depending on where you live, blooming may commence as early as late June and continue into September. How To Grow In most places, you can set out potted plants just about anytime--even in summer--as long as you keep them watered. This tough perennial prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil.

It grows into a steadily expanding clump, which is easy to divide in early spring or fall. You can turn several clumps into a solid border in just a few years. About the only problem that is associated with 'Goldsturm' is little black flea beetles that eat the flowerbuds. To treat, try spraying with horticultural oil according to label directions. Buy Wisely Not every 'Goldsturm' sold is the real McCoy. Some nurseries sell seed-grown plants that may grow taller than 'Goldsturm' with smaller flowers. True 'Goldsturm' comes from a division or rooted cutting. Ask before you buy. While you're at it, raise a glass to Herr Hagemann. Not only did he discover an exceptional plant, but he also reportedly talked his boss out of naming it 'Blitzkrieg.' "Perennial Winner" is from the August 2006 issue of Southern Living. See More

Question: What colour are the petals of the flower known as the Black-eyed Susan?
Answer: YELLOW