Black-eyed Susan

Description

Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to NAmerica. It thrives in Meadows, Roadsides, Gardens environments across regions including All USA, Canada.

Botanically, Black-eyed Susan is seeds flour. Young leaves diuretic tea. Ornamental edible.. It is also known locally as Rudbeckia.

The edible parts include Seeds, Leaves. With an edibility rating of 4/10, it ranks as a moderate wild food source. Harvesting is best done during August, July, June and September.

Nutritionally, Black-eyed Susan stands out for its Vitamin K (15.0mg, 12% DV), Vitamin C (5.0mg, 6% DV) and Iron (0.5mg, 3% DV). It also provides 1.0g protein and 1.5g dietary fiber per 100g serving.

In the kitchen, Black-eyed Susan offers a Bitter light flavor profile. Seeds ground leaves tea. Common culinary applications include seed flour, leaf tea. Popular preparations include Rudbeckia tea, Toasted seed snack, Seed flour bread, Seed dressing granola.

For storage, dried seeds years.

Safety note: Non-toxic unpleasant large doses. Antinutrient content is moderate alkaloids. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.

Foragers should collect black-eyed susan during Jun, Jul, Aug and Sep. Choose young, vibrant parts for optimal flavor and nutrition. Avoid specimens near polluted areas, roadsides, or treated agricultural land.

Field identification relies on recognizing the plant in its natural habitat — typically meadows, roadsides, gardens. Flowers, leaf arrangement, and growth habit provide the most reliable identification markers. Always consult at least two independent botanical sources.

Traditional NAmerica communities have long valued black-eyed susan as a seasonal wild food. Its reliable growth and nutritional density made it a valuable resource during lean periods and food scarcity.

In contemporary cuisine, black-eyed susan pairs excellently with olive oil, garlic, and citrus. It complements wild herbs, foraged mushrooms, and hearty grains. Experiment with both raw preparations and slow-cooked dishes to appreciate its full range.

Edibility

Harvest Calendar

Nutrition (per 100g)

Culinary Uses

seed flour, leaf tea

Storage

Dried seeds years

Recipes

• Rudbeckia tea
• Toasted seed snack
• Seed flour bread
• Seed dressing granola
• Wild Black-eyed Susan salad
• Foraged Black-eyed Susan pesto
• Roasted Black-eyed Susan

Where It Grows