4. Black-Eyed Susans

Scientific Name: Rudbeckia fulgida

• Plant Type: Perennial
• Plant Size: 2-4 feet
• Geographic Origin: Central US
• Plant Zone: 3-8
• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to direct sunlight

The Black-Eyed Susan is a tough, moderately drought tolerant plant. It starts blooming in early summer, and the blooms keep growing into the fall if the plant is deadheaded. There are other Black-Eyed Susan varieties, such as Rudbeckia hirta, that are annuals and won’t come back. In an appropriate climate, like the southern US, perennials like this one can thrive year-round.

The blooms are of golden color and shaped like the sun’s rays having a black center. These gorgeous flowers are often seen in the wild along hillsides or in fields.