Description
Ratibida columnifera
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Prairie coneflower is a perennial North American native that blooms over a long season in hardiness zones 4-9. Cheerful drooping yellow petals surround a tall center cone that resembles a sombrero, giving rise to another common name, “Mexican hat.” Tough and drought tolerant, a stand of prairie coneflower is a delightful addition to any garden, but especially beneficial if you are gardening for wildlife. The nectar attracts a multitude of pollinators and the seeds are loved by birds! This native gem is not fussy at all about soil and is easily grown from seed, though it may not bloom until the second year.
Seeds grown by Rancho Bohemia in Boise, Idaho.
100 seeds.
Directions: Direct sow in late fall, pressing lightly into the soil surface of prepared site. Cover the seeds lightly with soil. Can also be planted in the early spring, after 30 days of artificial cold stratification. Remove seeds from the packet and wrap seed in a moist (but not sopping wet) coffee filter or paper towel, place in a plastic sandwich bag, then place the whole packet in a clean glass jar, and store in the refrigerator for 30 days. If you want to broadcast the seed (rather than sowing individually), mix the seeds with moist sand in a plastic bag. Put the bag in a clean jar and the place in the refrigerator for 30 days. Direct sow the stratified seed outside, or start inside 6 weeks before the last frost. Transplant outside after danger of frost has passed.
|
Planting Depth |
Plant Spacing |
Days to Germination |
Days to Maturity |
|
1/8" |
16" |
7-42 |
Perennial |