Ratibida pinnata Commonly known as Gray-headed Coneflower, Grayhead Coneflower, Grayhead Mexican Hat, Pinnate Prairie Coneflower, Yellow Coneflower. Typically occurs in dry woods, prairies and along railroad tracks and roads. 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). Long summer bloom period. Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. Prefers clay or sandy soils. Tolerates poor, dry soils. Drought-tolerant once established to to its deep tap root. Height: 3'-5'Spread: 1.5'-2'Bloom: May-SeptemberLight: Full Sun-Part ShadeWater: Low-MediumZone: 3-8Origin: Central North America
