Black Eyed Susan

Rudbeckia hirta

Large native annual, biennial or short-lived perennial with yellow sunflower-like flowers, blooming May to October. Versatile, resilient and common, occurring in fine to coarse textured, well-drained to poorly drained soils of prairies, disturbed fields, open woods and roadsides; adapted up to 10,000 ft. elevation. Pioneer species after disturbances such as wildfire. Used in revegetation, reseeding road cuts, prairie restoration and extensively as a landscaping ornamental. Easily reseeds itself. Provides cover and food for numerous song and game birds; also eaten by rabbits and deer. Attracts many pollinating insects, including bees and butterflies. State flower of Maryland.