Mexican Hat Seeds - Flower Plant

Mexican hat, botanically known as Ratibida columnifera, is a perennial wildflower recognized for its distinctive drooping petals surrounding a tall central cone. Native to North American prairies, it adapts well to warm, dry climates and thrives in open, sunny locations. This plant develops upright stems with branching growth and produces long-lasting blooms through the warm season. It is tolerant of poor soils and drought conditions once established, making it suitable for naturalized gardens, wildflower meadows, and low-maintenance landscapes. Seeds benefit from a period of cold stratification to improve germination and typically establish gradually in the first growing cycle.

Features

• Perennial wildflower with upright, branching growth
• Produces distinctive red and yellow bicolor blooms
• Adapted to warm, dry, and open environments
• Suitable for wildflower gardens and naturalized planting
• Tolerates poor soils and low moisture once established

Specifications

• Scientific name: Ratibida columnifera
• Common name (US): Mexican Hat
• Seed type / variety: Red yellow bicolor variety
• Growth habit: Upright, branching perennial
• USDA zones: 4-9
• Planting season: Fall or early spring
• Growing season: Late spring to fall
• Sowing Season:
  • Fall: October to December
  • Early Spring: February to April
• Germination time and conditions: 2-4 weeks after cold stratification (1-5°C)
• Sunlight requirements: Full sun
• Soil requirements: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
• Watering needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
• Mature plant size: 30-90 cm height, 30-45 cm spread
• Plant spacing: 30-45 cm between plants