Pollination Information for Deamii Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida var. Deamii)

Deamii Black-Eyed Susan is a species of perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the Midwest region of the United States and is commonly found in prairies, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers with a prominent dark brown center. The flowers typically bloom from mid-summer to fall and are an important source of nectar and pollen for a variety of pollinators.

Pollinators of Deamii Black-Eyed Susan

Deamii Black-Eyed Susan is pollinated by a variety of insects such as bees, butterflies, moths, and flies. The plant's flowers are high in nectar and pollen, making them a valuable food source for these pollinators. Some specific pollinators of Deamii Black-Eyed Susan include:

• Bumblebees: Bumblebees are important pollinators of Deamii Black-Eyed Susan. They are attracted to the flowers' bright colors and sweet fragrance and collect nectar and pollen while visiting the flowers.
• Butterflies: Butterflies, including monarchs, swallowtails, and fritillaries, are also common visitors to Deamii Black-Eyed Susan. They are attracted to the flowers' bright colors and use their long proboscis to collect nectar from the flower's center.
• Moths: Moths, including hummingbird moths and sphinx moths, are nighttime visitors to Deamii Black-Eyed Susan. They are attracted to the flowers' sweet fragrance and use their long proboscis to collect nectar from the flower's center.
• Flies: Flies such as hoverflies and flower flies are also common visitors to Deamii Black-Eyed Susan. They collect nectar and pollen while visiting the flowers and are important pollinators for the plant.

Pollination Process

Deamii Black-Eyed Susan is a self-fertile plant, meaning it can produce seeds without pollination. However, cross-pollination between plants can result in genetic diversity and stronger offspring. The pollination process of Deamii Black-Eyed Susan typically involves the following steps:

1. Pollinator visits the flower and collects nectar and pollen.
2. As the pollinator moves to subsequent flowers, some pollen from the previous flower is transferred to the stigma of the new flower.
3. If the pollen grain is compatible with the stigma, it will germinate and grow a pollen tube down to the ovule.
4. The pollen tube delivers the male gamete to the female gamete, fertilizing the ovule and resulting in seed production.

Overall, Deamii Black-Eyed Susan is an important plant for pollinators and plays a vital role in maintaining the health and diversity of ecosystems in which it occurs.

Planting Deamii Black-Eyed Susan:

Deamii Black-Eyed Susan is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It should be planted during the spring or fall season in a spot with full sunlight. The soil should be well-drained and loose. It is important to make sure the plant has enough space to grow, as they can spread up to 3 feet wide.

Caring for Deamii Black-Eyed Susan:

Once the plant is established, it is relatively low-maintenance. It does not need a lot of water, only requiring watering when the soil is visibly dry. In addition, it is important to regularly deadhead the flowers to encourage new growth. Fertilizing is not necessary, but can be done during the growing season if desired. It is also important to keep an eye out for pests, such as aphids and spider mites, and to treat them appropriately if they are spotted.