Mexican Hat Coneflower

Commonly known as Mexican hats, the 30-inch plants produce a number of blooms. The large center, the size of an elongated golf ball, is green turning to brown. The crown of the hat is surrounded by mahogany, fringed with yellow petals that turn down and become the hat brim. Very interesting North American native plant. 50 seeds   PLANTING Ratibida columnifera Perennial, Zones 3-10 Germination: 7-42 days Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 65-70ºF Seed Planting Depth: Sow on the surface and press into soil, seeds need light to germinate Starting Indoors: Start indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Cold treating seeds for 2-4 weeks aids germination. Provide 65-70ºF soil temperatures until germination. Transplant 12” apart after the last frost. Sowing Outdoors: Direct sow outdoors in mid-spring or fall. Sow a few seeds every 12”. Thin to the strongest seedling Growth Habit: Upright clump-forming  Height and Width: 36-48” by 12-24” Spacing: 12-18” apart Light Needs: Full sun Soil Needs: Average to medium sandy loam, well-drained Approximate days to flower from seed: Blooms in the second season, mid-summer and on thereafter  Uses: Cut flowers, cottage and wildflower gardens, borders, attracts bees, butterflies, and birds Care: Plant in large clumps or masses for the showiest effect. Low maintenance and drought tolerant once established. Leave seedheads up in the fall for the birds.