Rudbeckia subtomentosa ‘Sweet black-eyed susan’

Rudbeckia subtomentosa, also known as Sweet Black-eyed Susan is a perennial native wildflower that gets between 3’-5’ tall. It is a member of the sunflower family (Asteraceae) and is known for its yellow-petaled flowers with a dark center disk, similar to the better-known black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta). With a bushy, upright habit and strong stems that do not need staking. The leaves are large and hairy, with a lobed or toothed margin and a light green color. The yellow flowers are 2-3 inches wide and bloom in summer and early fall, attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds.

Rudbeckia subtomentosa grows best in full sun to light shade and well-drained soil, and is relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established. It blooms for a long time starting towards the end of summer and carrying into the fall.

Overall, it is a hardy and attractive plant that adds bright, sunny color to gardens and landscapes, and provides important food and habitat for wildlife.