Overview

Ratibida is a perennial in the genus Ratibida, part of the Asteraceae family. Ratibida grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils. Suggested uses include wildflower gardens, prairie gardens and naturalized areas. It is native to North America.

About

Ratibida is a North American perennial in the Asteraceae, commonly called prairie coneflower for its cone-shaped flower heads. It flowers from July to September and prefers a sunny, well-drained site. Plants tolerate dry to medium soil moisture and suit naturalistic planting schemes. Use in wildflower or prairie-style areas where summer flowering is required.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Ratibida

About the genus

Ratibida is a genus of North American plants in the tribe Heliantheae within the family Asteraceae. Members of the genus are commonly known as prairie coneflowers or Mexican-hat.

Wikipedia contributors, "Ratibida", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Ratibida

In the garden

Ratibida is a genus of perennial members of the daisy family native to North America and valued for summer flowering. In UK planting it performs when given open, sunny positions and soil that drains freely; it is adapted to dry to medium moisture levels rather than waterlogged ground. Expect flowering from July to September, a useful span for extending summer display. Plant into full sun, setting crowns at the same level they grew at in the nursery to avoid stress. Soil should be well-drained; heavy, compacted soils benefit from added grit or a raised bed to improve drainage. Routine feeding is not required, but avoid over-rich conditions that encourage lush foliage at the expense of flowering. Ratibida suits wildflower gardens, prairie schemes and naturalised areas where plants can form loose groups or mixes with other drought-tolerant perennials. Its seasonal flowering gives structure through midsummer into early autumn and makes it appropriate for sunny meadow edges and informal borders. For best results place where it receives uninterrupted sun and has room to develop over the summer months.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Ratibida

Sunlight

full sun

Soil type

well-drained

Soil moisture

dry to medium

Plant details

Ratibida size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Suggested uses

wildflower gardens, prairie gardens, naturalized areas

Native to

North America

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Ratibida

Cultivation

Plant in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Drought tolerant once established.

Pruning

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

Propagation

seed, division

Frequently asked questions