Denver Daisy Black-Eyed Susan
Rudbeckia hirta 'Denver Daisy'Denver Daisy Black-Eyed Susan is a showy native perennial known for its large, golden-yellow flowers with distinctive dark brown centers. Each bloom features broad petals surrounding a prominent chocolate-brown eye, creating a bold, high-contrast display from summer into early fall. The flowers rise above green foliage on sturdy stems, making this variety particularly effective for adding bright color to perennial borders and pollinator gardens.
The large flowers are one of Denver Daisy’s standout features, often reaching several inches across. Its upright habit keeps the blooms prominently displayed, while the foliage forms a dense base beneath the flower stems. The long bloom period provides dependable color during the hottest part of the growing season, when many early-blooming perennials have already finished.
Denver Daisy performs best in full sun and well-drained soil and is adaptable to a variety of soil conditions. Once established, it tolerates periods of drought and dry soil, making it a dependable choice for sunny areas where consistent watering is difficult. Its flowers are highly attractive to bees and butterflies, while the mature seed heads provide food for birds and can be left standing for additional fall and winter interest.
Care Instructions:
Planting: Plant in full sun in well-drained soil.
Soil: Adaptable to clay, loam, and sandy soils.
Watering: Water regularly during establishment. Once established, water during prolonged periods of drought.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring if needed. Avoid excessive fertilizer, which can encourage excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning: Remove spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Leave seed heads standing in fall for birds or cut plants back in late winter.
Spacing: Space plants 1–2 feet apart to allow room for mature growth and good air circulation.
Maintenance: Divide or reseed as needed to maintain the planting. Avoid overly wet conditions.
With its oversized golden flowers, long bloom period, drought tolerance, and wildlife value, Denver Daisy Black-Eyed Susan is an excellent choice for adding dependable summer color while supporting pollinators and birds.
Landscape Solutions:
- Adds a dependable late-summer food source for pollinators when many early-season perennials have finished blooming.
- Provides seeds for birds when spent flower heads are left standing.
- Makes a great cut flower.


