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
Botanic Name
Ratibida columnifera
Pronunciation
ruh-TIB-ih-duh kol-um-NEE-fer-uh
Mature Height
18 to 24 in.
Mature Spread
12 to 18 in.
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.
Flower Color
yellow to red
Bloom time
July and August
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
North America
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 4-9
Elevation Limit
hardy to 7,500 ft.
Performance
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.
Maintenance
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.