Species grey-head coneflower

grey-head coneflower

Ratibida pinnata

Grey-head coneflower (Ratibida pinnata) is a perennial plant native to North America, typically growing up to 3 feet tall. Its blooms feature drooping yellow petals with a dark grey-purple cone-shaped center, giving it its name. The blossom petals have unique, deeply-cut pointed tips. This plant is drought tolerant, making it a great choice for sunny, dry areas. It attracts birds and butterflies and is also very resistant to deer and rabbits browsing. It blooms from early summer through early fall, providing months of beautiful color to gardens and landscapes. Mature plants are especially attractive, showcasing the unique grey-purple cone mixes with its bright yellow petals.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Root Cutting,Stem Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The grey-head coneflower should be watered twice a month, and the amount of water used each time should be sufficient to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. It is best to water deeply rather than too often and this can be tested by sticking your finger in the soil up to your first knuckle. If the soil is dry up to that knuckle, it is ready to be watered. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.

sunlight

Grey-head coneflower is a sun-loving plant species and prefers a full sun exposure for at least 6-8 hours per day. This particular coneflower grows best in well-drained soil and can tolerate a variety of soil types. It is recommended to plant this species in an area that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight throughout the day. The plant will also benefit from reflected light, so planting it in an area with other reflective surfaces is also beneficial. It is important to monitor the sunlight to ensure that the plant receives a consistent amount throughout its growing season. If the plant is too shaded, it can become leggy and the flowers may not form as vibrant and healthy.

pruning

Grey-head coneflower should be pruned once a year, in the spring after its last frost date. Pruning should be done when the plant is still small or beginning to grow, as pruning too late can damage the flower buds. Cut back the tallest stems to promote new side growth and to encourage branching. Cut out all dead, withered stems and leaves, as well as any yellow or wilting leaves. Prune the stems to about half of their original size. Be sure not to prune too much; pruning too much can stunt the growth of the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Ratibida pinnata typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Ratibida pinnata typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map