Ratibida pinnata, Gray-headed Coneflower

Gray-headed Coneflower with Eastern Purple Coneflower.

 

Gray-headed Coneflower grows well in dry prairies and savannas. It's basal leaves are deeply divided with fewer leaves ascending the stalk. The cone-like green centers eventually change to a maroon-brown. It grows easily, is drought-tolerant, and makes an excellent cut flower. To remain perfectly upright, it requires full sun and poorer soils. With more shade and or rich, organic soils, it is likely to lean over. Abundant flowers mid to late summer make this an excellent back-of-the-garden plant or prairie/savanna species.

Blooms: yellow, July to September

Height: 4-6 feet

Conditions: full to pt sun, dry to medium soils