Serving the Kansas City Metro for over 25 Years
Public Plant Profile

Sweet Black-Eyed Susan

Rudbeckia subtomentosa

Category: Perennial • Black-Eyed Susan

Discover Sweet Black-Eyed Susan, a vibrant plant perfect for mass plantings and attracting pollinators.

Mature Height: 3-5 feet
Mature Width: 3 feet
Bloom Color: Yellow, Brown
Bloom Time: Summer to Fall
Light: Sun
Zone: Zones 4-8
Maintenance: Low
Growth Rate: Moderate
Season of Interest: Summer
Foliage: Deciduous
Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Sweet Black-Eyed Susan is a perennial wildflower known for its bright yellow petals and dark brown centers. It attracts pollinators and thrives in various soil types.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Prefers moderate moisture levels.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil with average moisture; adaptable to various pH levels.

Sun Needs

Sun

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

mass plantingpollinator garden

Special Features

Attracts pollinatorslong-lasting blooms

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for birds.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant once established

Notes from Our Designer

Great for naturalistic gardens and adds vibrant color. Works well in groupings.

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Explore related plants, compare shape, texture, and overall planting style, and get a better feel for what may fit your own outdoor space.

Use this page to get a feel for where Sweet Black-Eyed Susan may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Is Sweet Black-Eyed Susan a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

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