Ratibida columnifera, commonly called Mexican hat the long-headed
coneflower or prairie coneflower, is an erect, clump-forming plant that
typically grows to 1-3’ tall. It ranges from Alberta to Minnesota south to
Arkansas, New Mexico and Mexico. It is most common on the Great Plains. This is
an aster family member that is perhaps most noted for the long, cylindrical,
center disk of each flower and its deeply cut leaves. Flowers bloom in summer.
Each flower features a long narrow center disk (cone to 2” long) with 3-7
drooping yellow and brownish-red ray flowers at the base. Leaves (to 5” long)
are pinnately lobed. Cylindrical center disks are dark brown and somewhat
resemble in shape the crown of a slender sombrero, hence the additional common
name of Mexican hat. Sunny borders, native plant areas, meadows and prairies. It
is a good source of nectar for bees and butterflies. It is a fast-growing wild
flower that is easy to grow from seeds. It grows in average, dry to medium,
well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates drought, light shade and poor soils.
Growing instructions
1. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil.
2. Lightly rake the seeds into the soil so that they are barely
covered with the soil. The seeds need light to germinate.
3. Water the seeds and keep the soil moist until the seeds sprout. The
seeds usually sprout in 3-4 weeks.
The seeds can also be started in pots indoors and then transplanted
when they have a few leaves.
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Kevin (verified owner) –
I was happy about the quick delivery and that the seeds actually sprouted within 7 days