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Description
Rudbeckia Triloba, commonly known as Brown-eyed Susan, is a perennial plant that belongs to the sunflower family. It is native to North America and grows up to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are triangular, hairy, and dark green, and its flowers are yellow with a brownish-purple center. The plant blooms from July to October and attracts bees, butterflies, and birds. Brown-eyed Susan is a popular choice for gardeners due to its attractive appearance, easy maintenance, and ability to self-seed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Rudbeckia |
Appearance
Brown-eyed Susan has triangular leaves that are hairy and dark green. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and produces yellow flowers with a brownish-purple center. The flowers have a daisy-like shape and are 2-3 inches in diameter. The plant blooms from July to October and attracts bees, butterflies, and birds. It is a clump-forming plant that spreads by self-seeding.
Care Guide
Brown-eyed Susan is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, and fertilized with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types but prefers slightly acidic soil. Brown-eyed Susan is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Brown-eyed Susan is generally a pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions. Rust and leaf spot may also occur in wet conditions. To prevent these diseases, it is important to provide adequate air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Brown-eyed Susan is native to North America and can be found in meadows, prairies, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant is drought tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Brown-eyed Susan a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Brown-eyed Susan is a perennial plant that comes back year after year if properly cared for.
Q: Does Brown-eyed Susan attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Brown-eyed Susan is a popular choice for pollinators and attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What is the best time to plant Brown-eyed Susan?
A: Brown-eyed Susan can be planted in the spring or fall, but it is best to plant it in the spring to allow it to establish before the hot summer months.
Q: Can Brown-eyed Susan be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Brown-eyed Susan can be grown in containers as long as it has adequate drainage and receives full sun exposure.
Related Plants
- Rudbeckia fulgida
- Rudbeckia hirta
- Rudbeckia laciniata
- Rudbeckia maxima
References
- “Rudbeckia triloba.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b512
- “Brown-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia triloba).” Illinois Wildflowers. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/brn_eyesusx.htm
- “Rudbeckia triloba.” North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/rudbeckia-triloba/
