How to Grow Native Wildflowers (Coreopsis & Black-eyed Susan)
Wikimedia Commons
Native Wildflowers (Coreopsis & Black-eyed Susan)
Coreopsis spp. & Rudbeckia hirta
flowerNative wildflowers like coreopsis (tickseed) and black-eyed Susan are hardy, drought-tolerant perennials and annuals prized for their vibrant yellow, red, and orange blooms that attract pollinators. These low-maintenance flowers bloom prolifically from early summer through fall, creating naturalized gardens that support bee populations, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Both species are essential components of pollinator habitat restoration and native plant gardens.
Looking for a specific variety?
When should you plant Native Wildflowers (Coreopsis & Black-eyed Susan) in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Native Wildflowers (Coreopsis & Black-eyed Susan) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Native Wildflowers (Coreopsis & Black-eyed Susan)
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
First Native Wildflowers (Coreopsis & Black-eyed Susan) blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Native Wildflowers (Coreopsis & Black-eyed Susan) dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Coreopsis and black-eyed Susan thrive across most of the continental US (zones 3-9), with excellent performance in zones 5-8
Sign up free to see if Native Wildflowers (Coreopsis & Black-eyed Susan) grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Native Wildflowers (Coreopsis & Black-eyed Susan) timeline →Growth Stages
Seed Germination & Seedling
2-4 weeksTiny seedlings emerge 7-14 days after planting in warm conditions (65-70°F). First true leaves appear within 2-3 weeks.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during germination. Provide bright light immediately. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once 2-3 inches tall.
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlants develop deep root systems and bushy foliage with lance-shaped leaves. Growth accelerates in warm weather; plants double in size monthly during peak season.
Water during dry spells. Reduce watering to encourage deep rooting. Pinch back tall varieties at 6 inches to promote branching and fuller plants. No fertilizer needed for native soil.
Flowering & Bloom
8-12 weeks (June-October in most zones)Profuse daisy-like flowers appear on tall, wiry stems. Coreopsis: yellow, pink, or red blooms; Black-eyed Susan: yellow petals with dark brown-purple center disk. New flowers open continuously.
Deadhead spent flowers weekly to extend blooming season and encourage more blooms. Leave some flowers to set seed for self-seeding and late-season pollinator food. Water during extreme heat.
Seed Production & Senescence
Variable; overwinters in most zonesIf left undeadheaded, flowers develop seed heads (cone-shaped for Rudbeckia, small dry fruits for Coreopsis). Foliage may fade or persist depending on variety and climate.
Leave seed heads standing through fall and winter for seed dispersal and pollinator/bird food source. Cut back perennial varieties in late winter (late Feb-March) before new growth. Annual varieties die after frost.
Winter Dormancy (Perennial Types)
3-4 months (November-March)Perennial coreopsis and some Rudbeckia varieties go dormant or semi-dormant in cold months. Plants remain alive at the root crown.
No watering needed; winter moisture is usually sufficient. Do not apply heavy mulch (1-2 inches only if zone is below 4). Allow dead foliage to persist for insect overwintering habitat. Cut back in early spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil if severe. Provide good air circulation. Avoid overwatering which can stress plants.
-
Ensure 6+ hours sun and good air flow. Remove affected foliage. Apply sulfur or baking soda spray if needed. Avoid overhead watering.
-
Remove infected leaves. Improve drainage and air circulation. Water at soil level only, not foliage. Mulch lightly to reduce soil splash.
-
and
Copper barriers, hand-pick, or beer traps. These are minor pests on established plants. Drought-tolerant conditions discourage them.
-
No cure; remove and destroy infected plants. Control leafhoppers with reflective mulch or insecticidal soap. Plant resistant species (coreopsis is resistant; some Rudbeckia are susceptible).
Uses
Pollinator Habitat & Food Source
WildlifeCoreopsis and black-eyed Susan are native plants that provide nectar and pollen for native bees, butterflies, and hoverflies throughout the summer and fall. Their open flower structure allows easy access for diverse pollinator species, making them keystone plants in ecological restoration. [source]
Cut Flower & Floral Arrangements
HouseholdBoth flowers are excellent as cut flowers with excellent vase life (7-10 days). The long stems and continuous blooming make them ideal for bouquets, naturalistic arrangements, and meadow-style displays. [source]
Edible Petals
CulinaryCoreopsis and black-eyed Susan petals are edible (though not highly flavored) and can garnish salads or desserts for visual appeal. Ensure flowers are grown without pesticides if intended for consumption. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalHistorically, some Rudbeckia species were used by Native Americans and early herbalists for immune support and wound healing. Modern research supports antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds in Echinacea (related genus), though coreopsis and black-eyed Susan have less documented use. [source]
Seed Source for Birds & Insects
WildlifeLeaving seed heads standing through winter provides essential high-fat food for goldfinches, chickadees, and other seed-eating birds. Seed heads also shelter overwintering beneficial insects like parasitic wasps and lacewings. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers: Harvest in early morning when stems are turgid, with at least 2-3 inches of stem. They last 7-10 days in a vase. For seed collection: Allow flowers to fully dry on the plant (August-October), then cut seed heads and store in paper bags in a cool, dry place. Seeds are viable for 2-3 years. Let some flowers self-seed directly in the garden for natural regeneration.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) is the state flower of Maryland and the official flower of the University of Maryland. Its dark central disk resembles an eye, inspiring its common name.
- 🌱 Coreopsis is sometimes called 'tickseed' because its seeds resemble ticks, but it is not a pest plant—native peoples valued it as a food source and for dye production.
- 🌱 A single black-eyed Susan plant can produce thousands of seeds from one season, enabling dramatic natural spread and self-seeding in favorable conditions. This aggressive reproductive strategy is why they're excellent for pollinator habitat—they create abundant food sources year after year.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Native Wildflowers (Coreopsis & Black-eyed Susan) planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Native Wildflowers (Coreopsis & Black-eyed Susan) seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Native Wildflowers (Coreopsis & Black-eyed Susan) timeline →