Upright Prairie Coneflower Ratibida columnifera Aster family (Asteraceae)
A tall finger-like column with a bottom fringe of yellow petals identifies the Prairie Coneflower at a distance. The yellow petals can also have rich red-brown tones. Its appearance lends it a rich assortment of names including "Thimbleflower" and "Mexican Hat."
Erect , 1-3' tall. Upper portion of stem is leafless holding a single flowerhead. Flowerheads comprised of 3-7 yellow , typically bent downward, surrounding a raised cylindrical disk. Leaves are , hairy, and cut into 5-9 segments with smooth margins.
