Origin
Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola (Small) Fern. is a species of flowering plant native to North America, specifically the eastern and central parts of the United States. Its range extends from the Great Lakes region to the Gulf of Mexico and from the Atlantic coast to the Rocky Mountains.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Black-eyed Susan, Brown-eyed Susan, and Golden Jerusalem.
Uses
Black-eyed Susan has a variety of uses. It is often cultivated as an ornamental plant for its bright and showy flowers that bloom from midsummer to early fall. The plant is also used in herbal medicine for its purported antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Some Native American tribes historically used Black-eyed Susan for medicinal purposes such as respiratory ailments, snakebites, and earaches.
General Appearance
Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola (Small) Fern. is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows to a height of 1-3 feet. Its leaves are hairy, lance-shaped, and arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers are composite, with yellow ray petals surrounding a dark-brown central disc. The central disc is surrounded by a ring of black tipped bracts. The fruit is a hard, dry, dark brown capsule.
Overall, Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola (Small) Fern. is a hardy and adaptable plant that can thrive in a variety of environmental conditions. Its striking appearance and medicinal properties make it a popular choice for gardeners and herbalists alike.
Light Requirements
Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola typically thrives in areas with full sun exposure. As such, it is recommended to grow this plant in areas that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. Although this plant can tolerate partial shade, it may result in decreased flowering and stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola grows well in temperate regions with cool to warm temperatures. The recommended temperature range for this plant is between 50°F to 85°F (10°C to 29°C). However, this plant can tolerate freezing temperatures in winter as long as it is well-drained, and the soil is not too wet.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola include well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range between 5.5 to 7.5. This plant prefers soil that is loamy and rich in organic matter, with good drainage capabilities to prevent waterlogging. If the soil is not well-draining, it could lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods for Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola (Small) Fern.
Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola is a plant that does well in sunny locations with well-draining soil. It is best to sow seeds during early spring in a location where it can grow undisturbed as it tends to have a delicate root system. Before planting the seeds, work the soil to a depth of 6 inches or more and mix a moderate application of compost or organic matter.
It is possible to transplant seedlings after 3-4 weeks when they are 2-3 inches tall, but this can result in shock to the plants, and they may not recover. When choosing to transplant seedlings, be sure to cover with a light cloth or paper as it requires darkness and moist conditions to sprout.
Watering Needs for Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola (Small) Fern.
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the hotter seasons or extended periods of drought. It is best to provide water when the soil is arid and keep the soil moist with minimal drainage beneath the plant. Try not to overwater as this may lead to root rot and damage the plant. A good practice is to gently lift the soil around the plant and observe the level of moisture around the roots.
Fertilization for Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola (Small) Fern.
Fertilization can be crucial to promote healthy plant growth and encourage the development of vibrant flowers. During the growing season, it is recommended to feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Use a balanced organic or chemical fertilizer and adjust the quantity according to the manufacturer instructions while avoiding overfertilization as this may lead to excessive growth and loss of endurance.
Pruning for Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola (Small) Fern.
Pruning is essential to keep the plant tidy and maintain healthy growth. It is best to prune in early spring before new growth occurs or late fall when plants enter dormancy. Cut off any damaged, diseased, or dead leaves, stems, or flowers with sharp and sterilized pruning tools. Pinching back spent blooms is also an effective way to prolong the blooming period and encourage the development of new flowers.
Propagation Methods
Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola (Small) Fern., commonly known as Black-eyed Susan, can be propagated through several methods:
Seed Propagation
Black-eyed Susan seeds can be easily obtained from a reputable garden center or harvested from mature plants. Seeds can be sown directly in the garden bed during spring or fall, just before the frost sets in. The seeds should be planted about 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil and covered lightly with loose soil. The soil should be kept moist, but not overwatered. The seeds should typically germinate within two weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Black-eyed Susan cuttings can be propagated from mature plants during spring or summer. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants, preferably in the morning when the plant's hormone levels are highest. Cuttings should be taken from the stems just below the nodes. The cuttings should be dipped into a rooting hormone solution and planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist and the cuttings should be placed in a warm spot with bright, indirect sunlight. The cuttings should start rooting within a few weeks and can be transplanted into the garden after six to eight weeks.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is best done during early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant. The root clumps should be gently dug out of the garden bed and separated into smaller pieces with at least one stem and root system. The divided plants should be replanted into well-draining soil, kept moist, and placed in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight. The plants should start growing within a few weeks and can be transplanted into the garden after a few months.
With proper care and attention, Black-eyed Susan propagated through any of these methods will result in a flourishing and vibrant garden bed.
Disease Management
Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola (Small) Fern. is susceptible to various diseases, including:
- Gray Mold: This disease is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea and causes the leaves to turn grey and develop brown spots. The best way to manage gray mold is to remove infected leaves and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by the fungus Septoria rudbeckiae and results in the development of yellow, brown, or black spots on the leaves. It is important to remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of this disease.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by the fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi and results in the plant's wilting and discoloration. To prevent root rot, ensure adequate drainage and avoid overwatering plants.
Pest Management
Rudbeckia hirta L. var. monticola (Small) Fern. can also be affected by pests, including:
- Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To control aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs into the garden.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause leaf discoloration and damage by sucking plant sap. You can control spider mites by regularly washing the leaves with water and using insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: Thrips are small insects that cause distorted growth and silver streaks on the plant's leaves. They can be controlled by using a systemic insecticide or introducing natural predators such as mites into the garden.
