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Black Eyed Susan Seeds – Native Wildflower for Pollinators, Drought-Tolerant & Deer Resistant

Heirloom - Non-GMO - Reliable Germination

$3.49 USD
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Size: 1 Packet

What Makes Survival Garden Seeds Different - non-GMO heirloom seeds

Black Eyed Susan Seeds (Rudbeckia hirta) grow into one of North America’s most recognizable and valuable native wildflowers. Known for its bright yellow petals surrounding a rich brown center, this resilient plant adds long-lasting color while actively supporting local ecosystems.

Often grown as a short-lived perennial or reseeding annual depending on conditions, Black Eyed Susan is fast growing, low maintenance, and highly adaptable. It tolerates drought, resists deer pressure, and thrives in a wide range of soils and landscapes—from open meadows to garden beds and naturalized areas. Blooming from summer through the first frost, it delivers dependable color and ecological value throughout the season.

Resilient, Low-Maintenance Native Plant:

  • Native to much of North America
  • Drought tolerant once established
  • Deer resistant and adaptable to varied soils
  • Ideal for wildflower gardens, meadows, and borders

A Keystone Plant for Pollinators:

  • Provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects
  • Supports biodiversity and healthy garden ecosystems
  • Long bloom period from summer into fall

Why Gardeners Love Black Eyed Susan:

  • Bright, classic wildflower appearance
  • Thrives with minimal care
  • Excellent choice for native and pollinator gardens
  • Reliable seasonal color year after year through reseeding

How to Grow Black Eyed Susan:
Sow seeds directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, or start indoors for earlier blooms. Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Water regularly during establishment, then reduce watering as plants mature. Allow some flowers to go to seed to encourage natural reseeding.

Net Wt. 500MG

Heirloom Native Plant Seeds

All of our seeds are open-pollinated, non-GMO, heirloom varieties with tested germination rates

Specifications

  • Botanical Name
    Rudbeckia hirta
  • Seasonality
    Perennial
  • Planting Zones
    3-9
  • Light
    Full Sun
  • Soil Temp for Germination
    70-75 Degrees F
  • Germination Time
    7-30 Days
  • Planting Depth
    0 Inches (Surface)
  • Plant Size
    24-36 Inches Tall, Up to 2 Foot Spread
  • Growing Instructions
    Direct sow from fall to spring or start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Cold stratify 4-6 weeks by mixing with moist sand and refrigerating. Sow on soil surface; seeds need light to germinate. Space plants 12-18" apart.
  • Seed Saving Instructions
    Once flower backs yellow, cut and leave 12-18” stalk. Hang heads in a paper bag for a week to dry. Rub seeds loose, select the plumpest, and store in a cool, dry place.
  • Seed Count (approximate)
    1683 to 2500

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Diagram showing the growth stages of a native perennial plant over three years.

Native Perennials Are Worth The Wait!

Native perennials may not bloom in their first year. When planted from seeds, perennials put almost all of their energy into establishing strong, healthy root systems in the first year of growth. In the second year, you should see larger plants and some blooms. After the third year, you will be able to enjoy a bounty of beautiful blooms. Trust us! It will be worth the wait!

Cold Stratification Aids Germination

  • Yellow bowl with moist clean sand

    Step 1

    Lightly moisten some clean sand. Make sure it is not too wet.

  • Yellow bowl with moist sand and flower seeds

    Step 2

    Mix your seeds with the moist sand.

  • Moving moist sand with flower seeds to a labeled storage bag

    Step 3

    Store your sand in an airtight container like a zip-top bag. Make sure to label and date your container.

  • White refrigerator with a gold handle against a gray wall

    Step 4

    Refrigerate your sand and seeds for 2 to 4 weeks (or more, depending on the information on your seed packet)

Final Step

Sprinkle your sand with the seeds on the surface of prepared soil and gently press in. Most perennial seeds require light to germinate. Keep soil moist until germination occurs.

Support Native Habitats

  • Supports Local Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Native plants are uniquely adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, forming the foundation of healthy ecosystems. They provide essential food, shelter, and breeding grounds for a wide array of native wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies, birds, and beneficial insects, which helps to maintain and enhance local biodiversity.
  • Requires Less Maintenance and Resources: Once established, native plants typically require significantly less water, fertilizer, and pesticides compared to non-native ornamental plants. Their deep root systems improve soil health and water penetration, reducing runoff and erosion, and their natural resistance to local pests and diseases minimizes the need for chemical interventions, saving time, money, and environmental impact.
  • Contributes to Climate Resiliency and Conservation: By supporting a healthy native plant community, you are helping to create more resilient landscapes that can better withstand the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events. Growing native plants also plays a crucial role in conserving local plant genetics, preserving the natural heritage of a region, and providing critical habitat corridors for wildlife facing habitat loss.
  • Detailed Growing Information: Paper seed packets include clear planting instructions, germination tips, and seed-saving info, great for beginner or experienced gardeners growing vegetables, herbs, flowers, or native plants.
  • Trusted USA Seed Company: Family-owned business providing heirloom, non-GMO, open-pollinated seeds; always fresh, untreated, rigorously tested, and expertly packed for long-term storage and gardening success across all experience levels

Why Choose Survival Garden Seeds

At Survival Garden Seeds, we believe in preparing today for tomorrow’s peace of mind. That’s why we offer only heirloom, non-GMO, and untreated seeds you can trust to nourish your family and support a sustainable lifestyle. As a family-owned American company, we’re committed to providing seeds that grow strong and true—helping you cultivate health, resilience, and beauty in your garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are your seeds heirloom and open-pollinated?

Yes. All of our seeds are heirloom, open-pollinated varieties, which means they can produce seeds that grow true to type and are suitable for seed saving.

You can learn more about open-pollinated, heirloom, and non-GMO seeds in our Survival Garden Training blog.

Are your seeds non-GMO?

Yes. All Survival Garden Seeds are 100% non-GMO. Our seeds are open-pollinated heirloom varieties and are never genetically modified.

Are your seeds treated with chemicals?

No. Our seeds are completely untreated and free from chemical coatings, fungicides, or synthetic treatments.

How do I know my seeds are fresh?

Every seed packet includes a packed-for date, and we germination-test each seed lot before packaging to ensure high viability.

What is the shelf life of your seeds?

Most seeds remain viable for 3 to 5 years or longer when stored properly in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture.

In what USDA hardiness zones can I grow your seeds?

Our varieties are selected to grow successfully across USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 10. Each packet includes variety-specific planting guidance and germination tips.