Rudbeckias, more often known as black-eyed Susans, also have daisy-like flowers, usually with black or almost black eyes and petals in the yellow to gold to orange color range – these are American native plants at their finest. Growing wild across the country from Maine to Florida to California, there are about 20 different species, including some of our most colorful garden flowers.
These US-native plants are as colorful as any plants from anywhere in the world. Rudbeckias are also easy to grow. They have simple needs – plenty of sunshine is key – and few need any special care. They also provide food for butterflies, bees and other pollinators. Although not 100% guaranteed to be deer resistant, deer usually pass them by on their way to finding something that doesn’t have bristly stems or leaves that taste unpleasant.
