Black-Eyed Susans vs. Daisies: Which Flower Should You Grow?

Black-Eyed Susans vs. Daisies: Choosing the Right Flower for Your Garden

Choosing the right flowers for your garden can be an exciting, yet sometimes daunting, task. With so many beautiful options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Two popular choices, often considered for their cheerful blooms and ease of care, are Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta) and daisies (Bellis perennis or related species, often referring to the Shasta Daisy, Leucanthemum × superbum). While both offer vibrant displays and attract pollinators, they possess distinct characteristics that may make one a better fit for your specific garden needs and preferences. This guide provides a detailed comparison of these two beloved flowers, helping you make an informed decision.

Appearance and Characteristics

Black-Eyed Susans

Black-Eyed Susans are instantly recognizable by their sunny yellow petals that surround a prominent, dark brown or black central disk. This striking contrast gives them their common name. The petals are typically daisy-like in form, but they tend to be slightly coarser and more textured than those of true daisies. Their sturdy stems and abundant blooms create a bold presence in the garden. They typically reach heights of 1 to 3 feet, and their spread is generally 1 to 2 feet.

• Color: Primarily yellow petals with a dark brown to black center. Some cultivars offer variations like orange or reddish hues.
• Bloom Time: Mid-summer to early fall, providing a long season of color.
• Foliage: Rough, lance-shaped leaves that are a medium to dark green.
• Growth Habit: Upright and clump-forming.

Daisies

Daisies are known for their classic simplicity and cheerful appearance. While the term “daisy” can refer to various species, the most common garden varieties, such as the Shasta Daisy, feature white petals surrounding a bright yellow center. The petals are delicate and slender, creating a more refined look compared to the bolder appearance of Black-Eyed Susans. Their heights vary depending on the species and cultivar, generally ranging from 1 to 4 feet. The spread is usually between 1 and 2 feet.

• Color: Primarily white petals with a yellow center. Some cultivars offer pink, red, or other colored petals.
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer, with some varieties reblooming sporadically throughout the summer.
• Foliage: Usually green, with variable leaf shapes depending on the species.
• Growth Habit: Clump-forming.

Growing Conditions and Care

Black-Eyed Susans

Black-Eyed Susans are remarkably easy to grow, making them an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. They are adaptable to a wide range of conditions and thrive with minimal intervention.

• Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) is ideal for optimal flowering, though they can tolerate partial shade.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. They are not particularly fussy about soil type and can tolerate clay soil, but prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• Watering: Once established, they are relatively drought-tolerant. Water regularly during dry spells, especially when newly planted.
• Fertilizing: Not heavy feeders. An annual application of compost or a balanced slow-release fertilizer in the spring is usually sufficient.
• Maintenance: Deadheading (removing spent flowers) encourages more blooms and prevents self-seeding. Divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.
• Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA zones 3-9.

Daisies

Daisies also offer ease of care, though their specific needs may vary slightly depending on the variety.

• Sunlight: Full sun is best for most daisy varieties. Some can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is crucial to prevent root rot. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering.
• Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring, or amend the soil with compost.
• Maintenance: Deadheading promotes continuous blooming. Divide clumps every few years to rejuvenate the plants and prevent overcrowding.
• Hardiness: Varies depending on the species and cultivar. Shasta Daisies are typically hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Considerations for Your Garden

Aesthetics and Design

• Color Palette: Black-Eyed Susans bring a warm, vibrant burst of color to the garden, complementing various color schemes. Daisies provide a clean, classic look that can brighten up any space. Consider the overall design of your garden and the color palettes that you want to achieve.
• Garden Style: Black-Eyed Susans are a great choice for cottage gardens, wildflower meadows, and informal planting schemes. Daisies suit a wide variety of styles, including cottage gardens, formal gardens, and modern landscapes.
• Texture: The coarser texture of Black-Eyed Susans can add visual interest and contrast, while daisies offer a softer, more delicate aesthetic. Consider the texture of the other plants in your garden when making your decision.
• Height and Form: Both flowers can vary in height depending on the cultivar, so it’s important to consider the space you have available and the overall form you want to achieve in your garden.

Practical Considerations

• Space: Both Black-Eyed Susans and daisies can spread, so ensure you have enough space to accommodate their growth.
• Maintenance: Consider the amount of time you are willing to dedicate to deadheading, dividing, and other maintenance tasks. Both are relatively low-maintenance, but some varieties may require more attention than others.
• Local Climate: Check the hardiness zones for both plants to ensure they will thrive in your specific climate. In warmer climates, consider providing some afternoon shade.
• Pollinator Appeal: Both plants are excellent choices for attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Pest and Disease Resistance

• Black-Eyed Susans: Relatively resistant to most pests and diseases. Occasionally, they may be affected by powdery mildew or fungal leaf spots, especially in humid conditions. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent these issues.
• Daisies: Susceptible to certain pests, such as aphids, spider mites, and leaf miners. They can also be affected by diseases like powdery mildew and aster yellows. Proper watering, good air circulation, and pest control measures can help minimize these issues.

Popular Varieties

Black-Eyed Susans

• Rudbeckia hirta ‘Goldsturm’: A classic and reliable cultivar known for its profuse blooms and disease resistance.
• Rudbeckia hirta ‘Indian Summer’: Features large, single flowers and a long bloom season.
• Rudbeckia triloba ‘Prairie Glow’: A taller variety with smaller, more abundant flowers.

Daisies

• Leucanthemum × superbum (Shasta Daisy) ‘Becky’: A popular variety with large, single white flowers and a sturdy habit.
• Leucanthemum × superbum ‘Alaska’: Another reliable cultivar with large, pure white flowers.
• Bellis perennis (English Daisy): Features smaller, often double flowers in a range of colors, including pink, red, and white.

Conclusion: Making Your Choice

The decision between Black-Eyed Susans and daisies ultimately depends on your personal preferences, garden style, and growing conditions. Both plants offer beauty, ease of care, and the benefit of attracting pollinators. Consider the following to help you decide:

• Choose Black-Eyed Susans if: You want a bold, sunny display with a long bloom season. You prefer a low-maintenance plant that tolerates a wide range of conditions.
• Choose Daisies if: You prefer a classic, elegant look with white petals and a yellow center (or other colors depending on the cultivar). You want a flower that works well in various garden styles, and you are prepared to address potential pest or disease issues.

No matter which flower you choose, you can be sure that you are adding beauty and vibrancy to your garden. By understanding the characteristics and needs of each plant, you can create a thriving and visually appealing space that you can enjoy for years to come. Consider combining both Black-Eyed Susans and daisies in your garden to create an even more diverse and beautiful display.