100mg Prairie Coneflower Seeds - Ratibida columnifera Wildflower for Pollinator Gardens

Prairie Coneflower (Ratibida columnifera) is a native North American wildflower known for its distinctive upright central cone surrounded by drooping yellow to reddish-brown petals. Also called upright prairie coneflower or Mexican hat, this hardy perennial brings a relaxed, prairie-style look to wildflower meadows, pollinator gardens, and naturalized landscapes. Its long bloom season and nectar-rich flowers make it a favorite of bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Prairie Coneflower is well suited to sunny, dry sites and tolerates poor soils, making it a dependable choice for water-wise plantings and low-maintenance borders. The seed heads that follow the blooms provide interest into fall and can be left standing for birds.

Plant Features

• Distinctive raised central cone with drooping petals
• Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Tolerant of drought and poor, rocky soils
• Long summer bloom season
• Native wildflower ideal for meadows and naturalized areas

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Ratibida columnifera
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial (often grown as a short-lived perennial or biennial)
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, lean to average soil
• Water Requirements: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
• Bloom Season: Summer to early fall
• Mature Height: 1-3 feet
• Spacing: 12-18 inches

Planting & Care

Sow Prairie Coneflower seeds directly outdoors in fall or early spring, or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Lightly press seeds into the soil surface; they need light to germinate. Keep the soil evenly moist until seedlings emerge, then thin or transplant to the recommended spacing. Prairie Coneflower performs best in full sun and well-drained soil and does not require rich soil or heavy fertilization.

Once established, water sparingly and allow the soil to dry between waterings. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering, or leave some seed heads for birds and natural reseeding. This low-maintenance wildflower is an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, meadow plantings, and xeriscape landscapes.

What's Included

Prairie Coneflower (Ratibida columnifera) seeds.