Mexican Hat, Upright Prairie Coneflower (Ratibida columnifera)

Mexican Hat, Upright Prairie Coneflower
Scientific Name: Ratibida columnifera Wooton & Standley
Synonym: Rudbeckia columnifera, Lepachys columnifera, Ratibida columnaris, Rudbeckia columnaris Pursh, non Sims
Family: Asteraceae

Show Larger Picture Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 1-24, 26-43
USDA: 3-11

Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: North America, from British Columbia to Texas, Arizona, and northern Mexico
Growth Habits: Perennial, up to 2 feet tall (60 cm)
Watering Needs: Regular water, needs good drainage, drought tolerant
Propagation: Seeds that need to be scarified, division

Native Americans used the leaves for herbal tea.

Ratibida columnaris, Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. Illustrated flora of the northern states and Canada. Vol. 3: 474

Cultural Practices:
Cut dormant plants to the ground in winter.

Blooming Habits:
The Mexican hat blooms from late spring to early fall. The flowers are long-lasting and are excellent as cut flower, keeping for 5 to 10 days in water.

Propagation:
Germinate at 68 to 86° F (20-30° C).

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