Identification of a Black-Eyed Susan

Location

• The black-eyed Susan (rudbeckia hirta) is a biennial flower native to the eastern United States. Over time, however, it has become a strong presence throughout North America. The black-eyed Susan has been known to grow in a variety of soils -- preferring soils that are 70 degrees Fahrenheit for germination. The black-eyed Susan can be located in gardens, fields, open woods and along roadsides. Blooming typically takes place between June and October. Known as a competitive flower, the black-eyed Susan can push out other plants that are growing within the area.

Description

• Perhaps the most recognizable aspect of a black-eyed Susan is the yellow flowers that grow around the brownish/purple center. The flowers themselves can grow to be 2 to 3 inches in length. The flowers grow on a stalk that can reach a height of 8 inches. The black-eyed Susan can grow taller than 3 feet tall in the right conditions. Attached to the stalk are green leaves that can grow to be 6 inches in length. The black-eyed Susan's nectar can attract bees, flies, butterflies and other insects.

A Pioneer

• The black-eyed Susan is a pioneer plant, meaning that it is one of the first plants to grow within a new area. For example, if a natural tragedy -- such as a fire -- were to destroy a hillside or forest, the black-eyed Susan would be one of the first plants to begin emerging after the fact. The black-eyed Susan can further be identified by the plants that grow around it. For example, the American elm, red maple, eastern white pine and White Oak have all been known to grow near or around the black-eyed Susan.

Life Cycle

• The black-eyed Susan has a life cycle of two years, so it is a biennial plant. During its first year of existence, the plant will grow a rosette. A rosette is a collection of leaves growing from the center of the plant that hang low to the ground. During the black-eyed Susan's second year of existence, a flower stalk will form. Flowers will bloom before the end of the second year and the plant will die. During its life cycle, slugs, snails and aphids will feast upon the leaves while deer and rabbits will consume the entire plant.