Black-eyed susan (Rudbeckia hirta) – This yellowish daisylike
flower can be seen throughout Beaver Island. It likes a lot of sunshine and blooms
June through October. Disturbed areas provide a lot of light so they grow well
along roadsides, throughout fields and recently cleared areas. Native Americans
suffering from worms and colds reportedly drank a tea extract from the roots of
this plant to help them feel better. A warning
about black-eyed susan: avoid prolonged contact with the leaves which may leaad
to possible skin irritations.