Dried seed cones of Black-Eyed-Susan
Rudbeckia hirta
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Black-Eyed Susan is the state flower of Maryland.
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Black-Eyed-Susans are favorite wildflowers that look great in all gardens. Their bright yellow ray flowers and dark central cone are recognized by everyone who sees them.
Allow the petals to drop from the flower after they have faded. The central cone will swell as it matures turning a deep dark brown The stem beneath a mature cone will change color from green to light brown signaling seed maturity. The cone is the seed head which contains many seeds that are dark brownish-black and shaped like small splinters. Remove the cone from the browned stem and allow it to dry for a few days on a plate away from direct sunlight in preparation for seed removal.
Place the dried cones into a sealed plastic container and shake it for a few moments. The seeds will release from the cones. Rudbeckia seeds are very small and narrow, resembling dark brown splinters.
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