ExplorePlants

upright prairie coneflower

Ratibida columnifera

The upright prairie coneflower is a bright yellow flower that loves to grow in sunny places. Its tall stem and unique shape make it stand out in fields and gardens.

Habitat: Grasslands

Appearance

The upright prairie coneflower has a distinctive central cone, often dark brown, surrounded by drooping yellow (or sometimes reddish-brown) ray petals. This unique shape makes it resemble a little sombrero or "Mexican Hat," standing tall above other prairie plants.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderAsteralesFamilyAsteraceaeGenusRatibida
upright prairie coneflower
flowering trait badgesummer_blooming trait badgecolorful trait badgegrassland trait badge
upright prairie coneflower

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

Be the first to snap!

Interesting facts

Indigenous peoples used parts of this plant for teas and to make bright yellow dyes.

Its "hat-like" flower inspired its nickname "Mexican Hat" or "Thimbleflower."

Its seeds provide a vital winter food source for many small birds, like finches.

The central cone is actually made of hundreds of tiny, individual flowers!

Special abilities

Ability

Bee Magnet

upright prairie coneflower's nectar-rich flowers attract many different types of bees and butterflies, helping pollinate the prairie.

Ability

Tough Pioneer

upright prairie coneflower can grow well in disturbed or poor soils, helping to re-establish vegetation in tough spots.

Measurements & details

Height
30-90 cm
Spread
30-60 cm
Flower Size
3-7 cm
Bloom Season
Late spring to fall
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
None
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always look but don't touch flowers unless a grown-up says it's okay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is upright prairie coneflower?

30-90 cm

How wide does upright prairie coneflower spread?

30-60 cm

How big are the flowers on upright prairie coneflower?

3-7 cm

When does upright prairie coneflower bloom?

Late spring to fall

Is upright prairie coneflower edible?

Yes

Is upright prairie coneflower toxic?

None

What is upright prairie coneflower's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is upright prairie coneflower pollinated?

Insect

Snap Map

Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.

Loading map…

Recent Snaps

Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.

Where to spot

More Plants