Wild sunflowers and black-eyed Susans, or rudbeckias, are both popular flowering plants that belong to the Asteraceae family. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct characteristics that set them apart.
Here are the highlights of their similarities and differences:
Both Black Eyed Susan and Wild Sunflower have yellow daisy-like flowers with black centers.
And certain species of Black Eyed Susan bloom at the same time as Wild Sunflower, but that is where the similarities stop.
The blooms of Black Eyed Susan are quite small, 1 to 3 inches in diameter. Wild Sunflower blooms are generally four to six inches in diameter.
Family: Both wild sunflowers and black-eyed Susans belong to the Asteraceae family,
commonly known as the aster or daisy family.
The flowers of both wild sunflowers and black-eyed Susans consist of a central disk surrounded by ray florets, which are petal-like structures.
Both plants attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other insects with their bright, nectar-rich flowers.
They prefer similar growing conditions, including full sun and well-drained soil.
Wild sunflowers are generally larger than black-eyed Susans, with some varieties growing up to 10 feet tall, while black-eyed Susans usually reach a height of about 2-3 feet.
Wild sunflowers have thick, sturdy stems and large, broad leaves, while black-eyed Susans have more slender stems and narrower leaves.
Wild sunflowers typically have yellow or golden-yellow flowers, whereas black-eyed Susans have yellow or orange petals with a dark brown or black center, giving them their characteristic “black eye” appearance.
Both plants have daisy-like flowers, wild sunflowers have larger, more prominent central disks, while black-eyed Susans have smaller central disks.
They are both beautiful flowering plants that add color and charm to gardens, but they have their own unique characteristics that make them distinct from one another.
Growing rudbeckias offers several benefits for gardeners and the
ecosystem. Here are some of the key advantages:
The bright yellow or orange petals with a dark center create a visually appealing display in gardens, adding color and beauty to the landscape.
These plants are relatively low maintenance and easy to grow, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
Rudbeckias and wild sunflowers have an extended blooming season, typically starting in mid-summer and lasting until fall. This prolonged display of flowers provides continuous beauty in the garden and attracts pollinators for an extended period.
They are both highly attractive to pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The bright flowers with nectar and pollen serve as valuable food sources, supporting the health and diversity of pollinator populations in the area.
As a native plant, they play a role in supporting local wildlife. The flowers provide nectar for butterflies and bees, while the seeds attract birds like finches and sparrows. The plants also offer shelter and nesting sites for small insects and birds.
Once established, they have good drought tolerance and can survive periods of limited rainfall.
This resilience makes them suitable for gardens in drier regions or areas with water restrictions.
Rudbeckias and wild sunflowers make excellent cut flowers due to their long-lasting blooms.
They can be enjoyed indoors in floral arrangements, bringing the beauty of the garden into the home.
Wild sunflowers produce a significant amount of seeds, which can be collected and used for various purposes. The seeds are edible and nutritious, attracting birds and other wildlife.
Growing both wild sunflowers and rudbeckias offers numerous benefits, including their attractive flowers, pollinator support, low maintenance requirements, and contribution to the overall ecosystem. They are a valuable addition to gardens, meadows, and natural areas, providing both visual appeal and ecological value.
The wild sunflowers and rudbeckias not only add beauty to our garden but also attract an abundance of pollinators. Their presence boosts our ecosystem, providing nourishment and shelter for local wildlife. And we like that!
Please share your experience in the comments section.
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map
https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/
Gulf Coast Garden Variety YouTube channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6zt…
Southeast Region Gardening and Native Plant Societies in the Gulf Region
Native Plant Society TX https://npsot.org/wp/
Native Plant Society LA https://www.lnps.org/
Native Plant Society MS https://www.mississippinativeplantsociety.org/
Wild Flower Society AL https://www.alwildflowers.org/
Native Plant Society FL https://www.fnps.org/
Principal cities in the Gulf Coast region are Houston, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Galveston, Beaumont, Lake Charles, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Gulfport, Biloxi, Mobile, and Pensacola.