The larvae feed on "Rudbeckia" species. Up to six varieties of "Rudbeckia laciniata" are currently recognized. In 1818, Thomas Nuttall describes a new variety that he named Rudbeckia purpurea var. Similar pollination strategy occurs in "Rudbeckia hirta". The larvae feed on the leaves of "Rudbeckia", "Helianthus" and "Aster" species. "Rudbeckia hirta" is the state flower of Maryland. It may grow alongside rose pink ("Sabatia angularis") and brown-eyed susan ("Rudbeckia triloba"). "Rudbeckia laciniata" is widely cultivated in gardens and for cut flowers. Rudbeckia is a plant genus in the Asteraceae or composite family. "Rudbeckia hirta" is an upright annual (sometimes biennial or perennial) growing tall by wide. "Rudbeckia hirta" is one of a number of plants with the common name black-eyed Susan.