Irish Eyes

Black-eyed Susan

70d to harvest

Velvety petals in warm golden-amber radiate around a velvety black center, creating a striking “Irish Eyes” gaze that seems to glow in full sun. At maturity, the blooms hold a crisp, daisy-like texture with a tidy, upright habit that makes each flower look freshly painted. Grow “Irish Eyes” for long-lasting garden color in beds and borders, and enjoy its dependable ornamental presence from early summer through the season’s peak.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	May 15th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 15th
Harvest Begins	Jul 24th
Harvest Ends	Sep 24th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	70
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	50
Min Night Temp (°F)	40
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Recommended Companions

Rhapsody In Blue Salvia

Green Twister Echinacea

Cherry Brandy Coneflower

Rubinstern (Ruby Star) Echinacea

Rose Rhapsody Salvia

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most common on Rudbeckia hirta (Irish Eyes), and how can I prevent it?

Rudbeckia hirta commonly suffers from powdery mildew (a white, dusty coating on leaves) in warm, humid weather. Improve airflow by spacing plants and avoiding overhead watering, then treat early by spraying with horticultural-grade potassium bicarbonate or a labeled fungicide for powdery mildew. If only a few leaves are affected, remove them promptly to slow spread.

How often should I water Rudbeckia hirta during the main growing phase?

During active growth and before bloom, keep the soil consistently lightly moist—water when the top 1 inch of soil dries out. Once established, aim for about 1 inch of water per week (more during heat), and avoid soggy soil because Rudbeckia hirta will decline in constantly wet ground. Water at the base to keep foliage dry, which also helps reduce mildew.

How do I know when Irish Eyes (Rudbeckia hirta) is ready to harvest?

Harvest for cut flowers when the ray florets are fully open and the central disk florets are mostly open, not tightly closed. For the seed, leave heads on the plant until the disk turns brown and dry and the seeds look mature; then cut heads and finish drying in a cool, airy spot. In general, Rudbeckia hirta reaches maturity in about 70 days from germination under good conditions.