Maryland’s rich natural history is often reflected in its official symbols, which represent the state’s character and heritage. The selection of a floral emblem was a deliberate recognition of a common wildflower that embodied the spirit and colors of the Free State. This designation highlights a species that is widely recognized and has deep roots in the region’s landscape.
The Black-Eyed Susan
The official state flower of Maryland is the Black-Eyed Susan, scientifically known as Rudbeckia hirta. This native North American species belongs to the Asteraceae family, commonly called the daisy or sunflower family. It is frequently seen blooming across the state’s diverse habitats.
The flower is characterized by its distinct, daisy-like appearance, typically reaching a height of one to three feet. Each flower head measures between two and three inches in diameter, featuring ten to twenty bright yellow or golden ray florets. These petals surround a prominent, dark brown or nearly black central cone, which gives the flower its common name. The species name hirta is Latin for “rough hairy,” reflecting the bristly texture covering the plant’s stems and leaves.
Why This Flower Was Chosen
The Black-Eyed Susan was officially designated as Maryland’s floral emblem by the General Assembly in 1918. This legislative action followed advocacy that began in 1896 with a group of women at the Maryland Agricultural College who championed the native wildflower. The designation was secured due to the flower’s natural abundance and its strong symbolic connection to the state’s official colors.
The flower’s bright yellow and black coloration mirrors the gold and black found on the Maryland state flag, which is derived from the shield of the Calvert family crest. Senator Harvey Bomberger, who introduced the adoption bill, successfully argued that the flower’s colors provided a natural match for the state’s heraldry. This color connection gave the Black-Eyed Susan an advantage over competing proposals, such as the goldenrod, cementing its status as a state symbol.
Ecology and Growing Conditions
As a native wildflower, Rudbeckia hirta is highly adaptable and thrives in various environments across Maryland. It is commonly found growing in open fields, alongside roadsides, and at the edges of open woods. Depending on the variety and local conditions, the plant is generally considered a short-lived perennial, a biennial, or an annual.
The Black-Eyed Susan is a sun-loving species that prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate afternoon shade. It flourishes best in well-drained soil and is notably drought-tolerant once established. Its blooming season typically starts in late spring or early summer, generally from May or June, and continues through early fall, often until September. Gardeners find this species easy to cultivate, making its resilience a common sight in the state’s natural landscape.