Common Names: Brown-eyed Susan, Three-lobed Coneflower
Scientific Name: Rudbeckia triloba
 
Plant Characteristics
Perennial/Biennial: Brown-eyed Susan is a short-lived perennial or biennial with a bushy growth habit and showy flowers.
Size: Grows to a height of 2-5 ft. with a spread of 1-3 ft.
Leaves: Tri-lobed (three-part) lower leaves and simple, ovate upper leaves. Leaves are rough to the touch and dark green.
Bloom: Produces abundant small, daisy-like yellow flowers with dark brown centers from late summer to fall.
Fruit: Forms small, seed-like achenes after blooming, which provide food for birds.
 
Growing Conditions
Water Use: Medium
Light Requirement: Full Sun to Part Shade
Soil Moisture: Prefers moist, well-drained soils but is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including clay and loam.
 
Ecological Benefits
Brown-eyed Susan provides nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens. Its seeds attract songbirds, such as finches, in the fall and winter. This plant helps support biodiversity by enhancing habitats with its prolonged bloom period and ability to thrive in various conditions. It's also deer-resistant, making it an excellent choice for naturalized areas.