Prairie Coneflower - Ratibida pinnata

Prairie Coneflower (Ratibida pinnata) is native to dry prairies and savannas. It has stiff and rough-feeling coarse leaves and showy yellow flowers that have droopy, soft yellow rays. The cone-like green centers eventually change to a dark purple or brown. Many insects are attracted to this plant such as butterflies and bees. Interesting plant for the sunny border, native plant garden, meadow, or prairie. Best massed because individual plants are narrow and somewhat sparsely leafed. Ratibida pinnata is a valuable food source for native bees. Wasps, beetles, flies, and butterflies also visit the flowers. Plants host caterpillars of Silvery Checkerspot butterflies for several months. Goldfinches also eat the seed! Coneflowers are native perennials beloved by gardeners for their cheery flowers, pollinator-attracting power, and easy-growing nature. Their flowers attract bees and butterflies, and after they fade, seedheads provide food for birds through the winter. Since they're drought tol