The Rudbeckias are looking especially showy this year! They are in full bloom and spreading well in NeighborSpace parks, residential gardens, and along roadways across Baltimore County. Rudbeckia flowers feature a prominent, raised brown or black disc in their center, giving rise to their common names of Coneflowers or Black-Eyed Susans. The Black-Eyed Susan has been the Maryland state flower since 1918.

Latin name: Rudbeckia hirta, Rudbeckia fulgida

Common name: Both species are often referred to as Black-Eyed Susans.

Description: Easy to grow and tolerant of a variety of soils. Prefers full to part sun. Short-lived perennial but self-sows freely.

Wildlife benefit: Excellent pollinator plant, attracting a diversity of insects including flies, beetles, moths, small butterflies, bees, and wasps. Host plant for the Silvery Checkerspot butterfly. Leave the seed heads in the fall and enjoy watching American Goldfinches fly back and forth in their distinct “rollercoaster” pattern.