Ratibida pinnataGray-headed coneflower
Family:Asteraceae
common name:Gray-headed coneflower
introduce:Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Asteraceae
Missouri Native: Yes
Native Range: Central North America
Height: 3 to 5 feet
Spread: 1.5 to 2 feet
Bloom Time: June - August
Bloom Color: Yellow
Sun: Full sun (only)
Water: Medium moisture
Maintenance: Medium
General Culture:
Grow in average, medium wet, well-drained soil in full sun. Prefers clay or sandy soils. Tolerates poor, dry soils.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
This gray headed coneflower is a Missouri native plant which typically occurs in dry woods, prairies and along railroad tracks and roads. A somewhat rough-looking plant that features pinnately divided leaves (to 5" long) on stiff stems growing 3-5 tall. The composite flowers have a dull-gray central disk in the shape of an elongated cylinder (1 inch long), somewhat resembling the crown of a slender sombrero. When bruised, the disk smells of anise. Attached to the bottom of the disk is a brim of 3-7, extremely reflexed (downward pointing), bright yellow ray flowers (to 3" long). Species name of pinnata is in reference to the pinnate leaves. Long summer bloom period.
Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems. May need staking or other support.
Uses:
Interesting plant for the sunny border, native plant garden, meadow or prairie. Best massed because individual plants are narrow and somewhat sparsely leafed.
