Pinnate Prairie Coneflower

(Ratibida pinnata)

Pinnate Prairie Coneflower (Ratibida pinnata)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Ratibida pinnata, commonly known as pinnate prairie coneflower, gray-head coneflower, yellow coneflower, or prairie coneflower, is a perennial herb native to prairies and open woodlands of the central and eastern United States, as well as Ontario, Canada. It is well-adapted to the open, sunny conditions of its native habitat and contributes to the biodiversity of prairie ecosystems. This species can reach over one meter in height and is characterized by its fibrous roots and rhizomes or woody caudices. The plant’s inflorescences are tall and rise above the foliage, each featuring up to 15 yellow ray florets that can be up to 6 cm (2+1⁄4 in) long. The center of the flower is globular or oval, up to 2.5 cm (1 in) long, and contains up to 200 or more disc florets ranging in color from yellow-green to purplish. The disc heads emit an anise-like scent when crushed.

Ratibida pinnata is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its showy flowers and its ability to attract butterflies and birds, enhancing the ecological value of gardens. It is often used in native plant gardens, meadow plantings, and as a border plant. The ’Sunglow’ cultivar is a popular choice for its bright yellow flowers. This plant thrives in full sun and is drought-tolerant, requiring low amounts of water once established. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, from clay to sandy loams. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained conditions and may require division every few years to maintain vigor.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 3-5 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Prairies and open woodlands in the central and eastern United States and Ontario, Canada

Other Names

Common Names: Drooping Prairie-Coneflower, Prairie-Coneflower, Pinnate Prairie-Coneflower, Pinnate-Leaf Prairie-Coneflower, Stor Mexikohatt, Grayhead Cornflower, Gray-Head Prairieconeflower

Scientific Names: , Ratibida pinnata, Rudbeckia pinnata, Lepachys pinnata, Obeliscaria pinnata, Lepachys pinnatifida, Helianthus pinnatus, Lepachys angustifolia, Rudbeckia cinerea, Rudbeckia citriodora

GBIF Accepted Name: Ratibida pinnata (Vent.) Barnhart