Brown-eyed Susan Rudbeckia triloba
ABOUT
The plant known as Brown-eyed Susan is characterized by its daisy-like flowers with bright yellow petals and a prominent, dark brown central cone that gives the appearance of an eye, hence its common name. These flowers are quite striking and typically bloom from late summer into fall, adding a splash of color to gardens as the season transitions. The leaves of the Brown-eyed Susan are generally oval to lance-shaped, with a rough texture that can feel slightly hairy to the touch. The edges of the leaves may be serrated or toothed, providing a somewhat rugged appearance that complements the naturalistic charm of the plant. The foliage is typically a deep green color, which forms a lush backdrop for the vibrant blooms. The stems of this plant are sturdy and branched, supporting the numerous flower heads that can appear at the tips. The plant has a bushy growth habit, which can fill in garden spaces with its dense vegetation. In gardens, the Brown-eyed Susan is often appreciated for its cheerful flowers that tend to attract butterflies and other pollinators. It's also known for being a hardy plant that can withstand a variety of conditions, making it a favorite among gardeners looking for reliable and eye-catching perennials. Its aesthetic with bright flowers and robust foliage allows it to stand out in wildflower mixes, borders, and as part of naturalistic plantings.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Brown-Eyed Susan, Three-Lobed Coneflower, Thin-Leaved Coneflower, Branched Coneflower
Common names
Helianthus trilobus, Rudbeckia triloba var. pinnatiloba.
ToxicityTo humans
Rudbeckia triloba, commonly known as brown-eyed Susan, is not generally considered to be toxic to humans. There is no well-documented evidence of its toxicity, and it is not known to cause serious harm if ingested. Consequently, there are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant for humans. However, as with any non-food plant, individual allergic reactions and sensitivity to plant components may occur, so it is typically advisable not to ingest plant material that is not meant for consumption.
To pets
Brown-eyed Susan, or Rudbeckia triloba, is also not commonly known to be toxic to pets. There is no significant evidence to suggest that ingestion of this plant causes systemic toxicity in pets such as dogs and cats. However, it is always possible for some pets to experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, if they consume plant material they are not accustomed to. As a precaution, it's wise to prevent pets from ingesting this or any ornamental plant, particularly in significant quantities.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Biennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-7
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Wildlife: Rudbeckia triloba, commonly known as Brown-eyed Susan, is highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are essential for the pollination of many plants.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Brown-eyed Susan is drought-tolerant and requires minimal care, making it an easy choice for gardeners.
- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: With its vibrant yellow flowers and dark central cones, Brown-eyed Susan adds a splash of color to any garden or landscape design.
- Supports Biodiversity: By providing food and habitat, these flowers can support an array of insects and birds, increasing local biodiversity.
- Long Blooming Season: Brown-eyed Susan has a lengthy blooming period from late summer to fall, providing color when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Naturalizing: This plant spreads easily and can cover large areas, making it ideal for wildflower meadows or naturalized garden areas.
- Erosion Control: The root system of Brown-eyed Susan can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
Medical Properties- Traditionally, some indigenous North American tribes have used Rudbeckia species, which include Brown-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia triloba), for medicinal purposes such as treating colds, flu, infection, and swelling.
- The plant has been used to make infusions for treating dropsy (now known as edema), a condition involving swelling with an accumulation of fluid.
- Rudbeckia triloba has been used in poultices, which are applied to snake bites and other wounds to reduce inflammation and aid in healing.
- The plant has also been associated with immunostimulant properties, possibly due to its echinacea-like effects, although specific evidence regarding Rudbeckia triloba's efficacy in this regard is limited.
- Teas made from the plant have been utilized for their purported soothing effects on sore throats or gastrointestinal discomfort.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rudbeckia triloba can be used as a natural dye source, where the flowers and sometimes the roots can be utilized to produce a yellowish-green dye.
- It can serve as an excellent education tool in schools for teaching about native plants and pollination due to its attractiveness to bees and butterflies.
- Ink can be made from the petals of the brown-eyed Susan by boiling them to extract color, which can then be mixed with a binder to create natural inks.
- The sturdy stems can be used in crafts for making wreaths and other dried flower arrangements.
- Since Rudbeckia triloba tolerates poor soil, it can be employed in soil erosion control projects to help stabilize soils with its extensive root system.
- This plant can be used as an indicator species in habitat restoration efforts, signaling a successful return to a healthy, diverse ecosystem.
- Photography enthusiasts often use brown-eyed Susans as a subject for practicing macro photography due to their intricate beauty.
- In autumn, the dried seed heads can be used for decorative purposes, adding a rustic and natural touch to home decor.
- Landscapers might use the plant as part of a wildflower meadow or prairie garden, emulating the plant's natural habitat for aesthetic and biodiversity value.
- The plant can be used in companion planting to attract beneficial insects that prey on garden pests.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Brown-eyed Susan is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Brown-eyed Susan is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Optimism and Positivity: Brown-eyed Susan is often associated with a positive outlook on life, much like its sunflower relative, as its bright yellow petals radiate joy and happiness.
- Justice: In the language of flowers, Brown-eyed Susan represents justice, perhaps attributed to its straightforward, plain beauty and its forthright growth in fields and meadows.
- Encouragement: Given to someone facing challenges, Brown-eyed Susan symbolizes encouragement and support, implying that one should stay strong and keep their face to the sunshine.
- Longevity and Health: Reflecting the plant's hardy nature, it conveys wishes for a long life full of good health.
WaterBrown-eyed Susan prefers to be watered regularly, with soil being kept moist but not waterlogged. This usually means watering deeply once every week, with about 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant depending on the weather conditions, especially during the growing season in warmer months. During prolonged dry spells or extreme heat, you may need to increase watering frequency. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out before watering again to ensure you're not overwatering. In cooler months or when rainfall is plentiful, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
LightBrown-eyed Susan thrives best in full sunlight, which means it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. An ideal spot is in an open area that is not shaded by larger plants or structures. Partial shade is also tolerable, especially in the hottest parts of the day, but full sun is preferred to promote the best growth and blooming.
TemperatureBrown-eyed Susan is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, but it grows best when the temperature is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures up to around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure the plant is protected from frost, which can damage the foliage and stems.
PruningPruning Brown-eyed Susan is mainly done to promote more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance. Deadhead spent flowers regularly during the blooming season to encourage new blooms. Cut back the entire plant by one-third to one-half in midsummer if it becomes leggy or to rejuvenate the plant for a new flush of growth. The best time to do a heavier prune is late winter or early spring to remove any old growth before new foliage emerges.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBrown-eyed Susan thrives in well-drained soil enriched with compost; a mix of two parts garden soil, one part compost, and one part perlite works well. The optimal soil pH for Brown-eyed Susan is between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingBrown-eyed Susan, or Brown-eyed Susan, typically does not require frequent repotting as it is often grown as a biennial. Repotting every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingBrown-eyed Susan prefers average humidity levels found in outdoor environments and does not require any special humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Brown-eyed Susan in bright light; water when topsoil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant Brown-eyed Susan in sun/partial shade; water regularly.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Rudbeckia triloba, commonly known as the Brown-Eyed Susan, begins with seed germination, typically in the spring when the soil has warmed up. During the seedling stage, the plant develops its first true leaves and begins to establish a root system. As it enters the vegetative stage, it grows rapidly, producing a rosette of leaves and branching out. The transition to the flowering stage occurs usually in the late summer or early fall, when the plant produces clusters of yellow flowers with a dark brown central cone. After pollination by insects, the flowers develop into fruit, which are achenes that contain seeds. Finally, the plant completes its life cycle by senescence and death after seed dispersal, which may be followed by self-seeding if conditions allow for the growth of new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
The brown-eyed Susan, also known as Rudbeckia triloba, is commonly propagated through seeds. The ideal time to sow the seeds is in late fall to early spring. By sowing directly into the soil, the chilling period required to break seed dormancy is naturally provided by the winter weather. Alternatively, one can start seeds indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. When starting seeds indoors, it may be necessary to simulate the chilling period by placing the seed container in a refrigerator for about 4 weeks before sowing. Once properly chilled, seeds should germinate in 7 to 14 days when kept at a soil temperature around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (about 21 degrees Celsius). Seedlings can then be transplanted outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
