Maryland takes pride in its official state symbols, each representing a piece of the state's natural beauty and identity. Among these symbols, the state bird and flower stand out as beloved emblems that reflect Maryland's rich wildlife and botanical heritage. Let's explore what these symbols are, their significance, and why they matter to the people of the Old Line State.
The Maryland State Bird: Baltimore Oriole
The Baltimore Oriiol (Icterus galbula) was designated as the official state bird of Maryland in 1947. This striking songbird is known for its brilliant orange and black plumage, a color combination that directly echoes the heraldic colors of Lord Baltimore, after whom the state's largest city is named. Male Baltimore Orioles are especially vibrant, sporting bold orange chests, shoulders, and rumps contrasted against jet-black heads and backs, while females display a more subdued yellowish-orange coloring.
These birds are a familiar sight throughout Maryland during the spring and summer months. They prefer habitats near open woodlands, riverbanks, and suburban areas with mature trees, making Maryland's diverse landscape an ideal home. Baltimore Orioles feed primarily on insects, fruit, and nectar, and many residents attract them to their yards by offering orange halves and grape jelly on feeders. Their distinctive hanging pouch-like nests, woven from plant fibers and twigs, are considered marvels of avian architecture.
The Baltimore Oriole's significance extends beyond the state. It shares its name with the Baltimore Orioles Major League Baseball team, which adopted the name in 1954. The bird's association with Maryland runs deep in both cultural and ecological contexts, making it a fitting and cherished state symbol. Each year, their return from Central American wintering grounds signals the arrival of warmer weather for Maryland residents who eagerly await their song-filled mornings.
The Maryland State Flower: Black-Eyed Susan
The Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) became the official flower of Maryland in 1918. This cheerful, daisy-like wildflower features bright golden-yellow petals surrounding a prominent dark brown or black central cone, giving it its memorable name. The flower typically blooms from June through October and thrives in fields, meadows, roadsides, and open woodlands across the state, making it one of Maryland's most recognizable native plants.
The Black-Eyed Susan requires virtually no special care, tolerating heat, drought, and poor soil conditions with ease. Its resilience mirrors the hardworking spirit often associated with Maryland communities. The flower serves as a vital source of nectar and pollen for local pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting the broader ecosystem. Gardeners across Maryland and beyond prize it for both its beauty and its low-maintenance nature.
Beyond its ecological value, the Black-Eyed Susan holds a special place in Maryland's cultural identity. It serves as the official flower of the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of horse racing's Triple Crown held annually at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. Although the winning horse is draped with a blanket of Viking Poms—chrysanthemums made to resemble the flower—due to the Black-Eyed Susan's late blooming season, the connection remains a point of pride. The flower's colors of gold and black again tie back to the Calvert family coat of arms, reinforcing its deep historical roots in Maryland's identity.
Getting Involved: Attracting Maryland's State Symbols
For Maryland residents and nature enthusiasts wanting to welcome these iconic species into their surroundings, there are practical steps to take. To attract Baltimore Orioles, consider planting fruit-bearing shrubs and trees, such as serviceberries or mulberries, and maintaining a nectar feeder during migration periods. A birdbath with a small dripper can also draw them in, as they are attracted to the sound of moving water.
Growing Black-Eyed Susans is even simpler. They can be planted from seed directly into the garden in late fall or early spring. Full sun and well-drained soil are all they need to flourish. Once established, they will readily self-seed, returning year after year in greater numbers. Planting them alongside other native wildflowers creates a pollinator-friendly garden that supports Maryland's biodiversity while showcasing the beauty of the state flower in its natural setting.
