While I like to joke that I don't approve of the name of this plant, I don't see how you can't smile when you see it. The Black-Eyed Susan, or Rudbeckia hirta, has got to be one of the perkiest plants that is blooming right now. It's another late-summer bloomer that can really brighten up the flower beds as other perennials are fading away.
They are yet another sun-lover that likes well-drained soil and needs a minimal amount of care. They generally grow between 2 and 3 feet in height and are always a welcome sight in my garden.
If you live in the Spokane area, you should know that The Friends of Manito will have some Rudbeckias available at their fall plant sale on Aug. 28 and 29. They will have Rudbeckia hirta 'Irish Eyes', which has a green eye, and Rudbeckia hirta 'Maya' which has double flowers with brown eyes.
The sale, which runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. both days, will be held just east of the Gaiser Conservatory. Check out their web site - thefriendsofmanito.org - to see their plant list or call (509) 456-8038 for more information. The money raised from sales like these goes right back into improvements for Manito Park. If you are a member of The Friends of Manito, you can get into to the sale at 8 a.m. For me, that's worth the nominal membership fee right there!
