The lanky yellow cousin to purple coneflower, prairie coneflower tolerates a wide range of soil conditions as well as heat and drought, making it a great plant for beginner gardeners. This flower looks great massed in borders or in the back of a garden due to its height. This cheery addition to your yard is popular with both bees and butterflies and the seed heads are popular with birds.

Care requirements:.

Light requirements: Full sun

Water requirements: Medium

Soil requirements: Medium, well-drained

Bloom time: June-September

Bloom color: Yellow

Height: 3-5 feet

Width: 1.5-2 feet

USDA Zone: 3-9

Larval host: Silvery checkerspot butterfly

Other notes: Tolerates almost any soil as well as heat and drought. Has a tendency to flop over so is best planted with other tall and stiff flowers/grasses. Transplants easily and makes good cut flowers. Looks best when grouped in masses.

Do you have prairie coneflower growing in your garden? Do you have any tips or tricks for growing it you would like to share? Do you know of any Southeastern nurseries that regularly stock it? Let us know in the comments!