100 Prairie Coneflower Seeds – Heirloom Non-GMO Wildflower for Garden Planting
Prairie Coneflower, also known as upright prairie coneflower or Mexican hat, is a hardy native wildflower prized for its distinctive cone-shaped centers and drooping petals. Its bright yellow to reddish-brown blooms resemble small sombreros, adding a unique, naturalistic touch to meadows, pollinator gardens, and wildflower plantings. This heirloom, non-GMO variety is easy to grow from seed and provides season-long color with minimal maintenance.
Prairie Coneflower is a favorite among gardeners seeking low-water, native plants that support bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping, prairie restorations, and cottage garden borders. Its long bloom period and tolerance for heat and drought make it a reliable performer in a wide range of climates.
Plant Features
- Heirloom, non-GMO seeds for sustainable gardening
- Distinctive cone-shaped centers with drooping petals
- Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies
- Tolerant of heat, drought, and poor soil once established
- Long bloom season from early summer to fall
Growing Information
- Botanical Name: Ratibida columnifera
- Plant Type: Perennial wildflower (often grown as annual in colder zones)
- Sunlight: Full sun
- Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
- Water Requirements: Low to medium; drought tolerant once established
- Growth Habit: Upright, clump-forming
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
- Bloom Season: Summer to early fall
- Mature Height: 12-36 inches
- Germination Requirements: Cold stratification recommended; surface sow, light needed for germination
- Spacing: 12-18 inches apart
Planting & Care
Sow Prairie Coneflower seeds directly outdoors in late fall or early spring, or start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. For indoor sowing, press seeds lightly into the soil surface without covering, as light aids germination. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Germination typically occurs in 14-30 days at 65-70°F. If starting indoors, cold stratify seeds for 30 days before sowing to improve results.
Once seedlings have several sets of true leaves, transplant to a sunny location with well-drained soil. Space plants 12-18 inches apart. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. After establishment, Prairie Coneflower is drought tolerant and requires little supplemental water. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering, or leave seed heads for birds. Divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigor.
What's Included
100 Prairie Coneflower seeds (Ratibida columnifera). Heirloom, non-GMO.