Prairie Coneflower

Mexican Hat

Ratibida columnifera

ruh-TIB-ih-duh kol-um-NEE-fer-uh
18 to 24 in.
12 to 18 in.
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low to very low

yellow to red

July and August

18 to 24 in.

12 to 18 in.

Yes

North America

sun

USDA zones 4-9

hardy to 7,500 ft.

Prairie coneflower is a native, drought-tolerant wildflower of the Great Plains. The leaves grow as a mound of finely cut, medium green-gray foliage.

From late June through August, it produces bright yellow to red flowers on upright flower stalks. The flowers have an extended center and drooping petals, resembling a sombrero.

This short-lived plant reseeds readily. Since it normally grows in open patches in grasslands and mountain foothills, it is a great choice for mixing with native grasses or a naturalistic landscape. The seed is used by some birds.

low to very low

yellow to red

July and August

18 to 24 in.

12 to 18 in.

Yes

North America

sun

USDA zones 4-9

hardy to 7,500 ft.

Prairie coneflower is growing at the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden in both a traditional flower bed and as part of a wildflower/native grass mixture. The bright yellow to red flowers are very beautiful. This is a tough, water-wise plant worthy of consideration.

Cut dormant plants to the ground in early spring before new growth starts. These are fairly short-lived plants and new seed may have to be planted for continuous growth. Leave seedheads through fall and early winter to feed native birds.