Long-headed Coneflower Ratibida columnifera

Prairie coneflower is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial native to the central USA in the daisy family (Asteraceae). It is found growing in fields, prairies and dry open woods. It is very rare in NC and may have naturalized from cultivated sources ("wildflower" seeds). The specific epithet is Latin for “having a column” and is in reference to the elongate receptacle in the heads of flowers.

Prairie coneflower will grow up to 3 feet tall and prefers clay loam to sandy loam soils in full sun and is adaptable to dry to moist conditions and various soils. It is very easy to grow in full sun to partial shade. It is drought- and poor soil-tolerant, so there is generally no need for fertilizer or extensive irrigation. Propagation is from seeds or division.

The yellow ray petals surround a central dark column of disc flowers in summer. The green leaves are compound with 3 to 7 divisions. 

Use this plant in the pollinator or wildflower garden in the back border, in masse, in naturalized areas, meadows or open woodland. This plant can also be used in rain gardens.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems.