Plectocephalus americanus, commonly known as American basketflower, is an annual herb native to grasslands and prairies in the southern central United States and northeastern Mexico. It can grow to a height of 5-6 feet with a similar spread. The plant features large, showy, thistle-like flowers with a cream-colored center and pink to lavender bracts that bloom from late spring to early summer, typically May through June. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

American basketflower is valued for its ornamental flowers which can be used in fresh or dried floral arrangements. It is also appreciated for its ability to adapt to a range of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soils. In cultivation, it requires full sun exposure and moderate water, making it suitable for wildflower gardens, meadows, and naturalized areas. It is relatively low-maintenance once established. However, its spiny bracts can make handling the plant somewhat difficult, and it may self-seed prolifically if seed heads are not removed.CC BY-SA 4.0