Description
Upright Prairie Coneflower, also known as Ratibida columnifera or Mexican Hat, is a distinctive native perennial in the aster family. It’s easily recognized by its tall, central cone-shaped flower disk surrounded by drooping yellow or reddish ray petals.
This hardy wildflower grows 2 to 3 feet tall and blooms throughout the summer, producing seed heads that mature by early fall (September–October). The seeds, when crushed, release an anise-like aroma that helps attract birds, mammals, and even livestock. It is drought tolerant thanks to its deep taproot and thrives in full sun and medium to dry soils. However, it should not be planted in areas prone to standing water. Consistently wet soil can lead to root rot and poor growth due to limited oxygen exchange.
Native to much of the continental United States (excluding the Pacific Northwest), Upright Prairie Coneflower is well-adapted to hardiness zones 3 through 9 and is often used in prairie restorations, pollinator gardens, and erosion-prone sites.
