Prairie Coneflower

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.

Prairie Coneflower

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.

Plant details
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Botanic Name

Ratibida columnifera

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Pronunciation

ruh-TIB-ih-duh kol-um-NEE-fer-uh

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Mature Height

18 to 24 in.

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Mature Spread

12 to 18 in.

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Water usage
Water Usage

One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.

Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.

Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.

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Flower Color

yellow to red

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Bloom time

July and August

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Colorado Native

Yes

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Natural Habitat

North America

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Light Requirements

sun

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Cold Hardiness

USDA zones 4-9

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Elevation Limit

hardy to 7,500 ft.

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