Dracopis amplexicaulis (Clasping Coneflower)

Dracopis amplexicaulis (Clasping Coneflower) is an annual coneflower boasting showy daisy blossoms, 2 in. across (5 cm), from mid-spring to mid-summer. Resembling Mexican hats (Ratibida), each flower features 5-10 drooping yellow rays with reddish-purple bases. They surround a prominent, dark brown, cone-shaped center disk. Rich in nectar, the blossoms attract bees and butterflies. They are carried atop smooth stems dotted with alternately arranged, oblong, glaucous leaves, 4 in. long (10 cm). Easy to grow, trouble-free, and low care, Clasping Coneflower provides weeks of eye-catching color. Its attractive seedheads further extend its season of interest and will be visited in the fall and winter by birds that feed on the seeds. Excellent for mass plantings, Clasping Coneflower is an attractive plant for native gardening and wildflower meadows.

• Grow up to 18-24 in. tall (45-60 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm). This plant will keep a presence in the garden through self-seeding and may form colonies.
• Performs best in full sun in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils. Moist, organically rich soils are preferred. Tolerates light shade, heat, and drought.
• Great for sunny borders, prairies or meadows, and native plant gardens.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Deadhead spent flowers to promote more flowers or to control self-seeding.
• Propagate by seed.
• Native to the southeastern United States from Georgia to Texas and north into Missouri and Kansas.