Genus guide
Rudbeckia — 27 species
Part of the Daisy & aster family family (Asteraceae)
Rudbeckia encompasses roughly 25 species of sun-loving North American wildflowers — from the classic Indian Summer black-eyed Susan and Cutleaf coneflower to the perennial Sweet Black-Eyed Susan — prized for golden-yellow ray florets surrounding a dark central disc. They thrive in full sun (minimum six hours) and are highly drought-tolerant once established, requiring only occasional deep watering. Toxicity varies across the genus: sesquiterpene lactones present in some species can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in cats and dogs, so check each species before buying and keep curious pets away from the garden bed.
All Rudbeckia species we cover
- Black-Eyed Susan
- Black-eyed Susan 'Goldsturm'
- Brown-eyed Susan
- Cherry Brandy Rudbeckia
- Cutleaf coneflower
- Gloriosa Daisy
- Indian Summer black-eyed Susan
- Indian Summer Black-Eyed Susan
- Missouri Coneflower
- Orange coneflower
- Rough Coneflower
- Rudbeckia 'Autumn Colors'
- Rudbeckia 'Becky Mixed'
- Rudbeckia 'Cherry Brandy'
- Rudbeckia 'Denver Daisy'
- Rudbeckia 'Goldsturm'
- Rudbeckia 'Goldsturm'
- Rudbeckia 'Henry Eilers'
- Rudbeckia 'Indian Summer'
- Rudbeckia 'Little Henry'
- Rudbeckia 'Pot of Gold'
- Rudbeckia 'Prairie Sun'
- Rudbeckia 'Sahara'
- Rudbeckia 'Toto Gold'
- Rudbeckia maxima
- Sweet Black-Eyed Susan
- Three-lobed Coneflower
Rudbeckia — frequently asked questions
Are Rudbeckia plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Rudbeckia are not pet-safe. Of the 27 Rudbeckia species in the Growli library, 18 (67%) carry a toxic or mildly-toxic ASPCA classification and 9 are pet-safe. Always confirm the exact species on its pet-safety page before trusting it around cats or dogs.
How much light do Rudbeckia plants need?
Most Rudbeckia do best in direct sun. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Rudbeckia easy to care for?
Some Rudbeckia suit more experienced growers — several want strong light, sharp drainage or a specific seasonal rhythm. Check the individual species page for the exact regime.
How many Rudbeckia varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 27 Rudbeckia species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Rudbeckia, the rest follow closely.
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