Mexican Hat (Ratibida columnifera) is a perennial wildflower plant that is hardy in USDA zones 3-9 and is native to North America, including Wisconsin.
This plant features long, leafless stalks topped with 2-inch flower heads that have 3-7 yellow and red, drooping rays surrounding a prominent, red-brown, 2-inch protruding disc. The colorful flower heads resemble a traditional Mexican sombrero. Mexican Hat blooms from summer to early fall. Although the flowers have no fragrance, the leaves emit a distinct odor that deters deer.
Mexican Hat provides nectar and pollen for native pollinators and serves as an attractive cut flower. It attracts bees, butterflies, birds, and other pollinators and is a host plant for the pipevine swallowtail butterfly (*Battus philenor*).
The plant thrives in full sun and reaches a mature height of 1.5 to 3 feet, with a spread of about 18 inches. It grows well in well-drained clay, loam, and sandy soils, preferring hot locations.
The stems are long and leafless, while the lower leaves are feathery and deeply cut. The seed heads produce ripened seeds that serve as an excellent food source for birds during the winter months.
Companion plants for Mexican Hat include Liatris, Echinacea, bronze fennel, aster, Penstemon, and Monarda. The plant is also resistant to rabbits. To maintain vigor, it is recommended to divide the plants every 2-3 years.
Historically, Native Americans brewed tea from the leaves and stems to treat various ailments, including headaches, stomachaches, respiratory issues, snakebites, and poison ivy.
Mexican Hat (Ratibida columnifera) is a perennial wildflower plant that is hardy in USDA zones 3-9 and is native to North America, including Wisconsin.
This plant features long, leafless stalks topped with 2-inch flower heads that have 3-7 yellow and red, drooping rays surrounding a prominent, red-brown, 2-inch protruding disc. The colorful flower heads resemble a traditional Mexican sombrero. Mexican Hat blooms from summer to early fall. Although the flowers have no fragrance, the leaves emit a distinct odor that deters deer.
Mexican Hat provides nectar and pollen for native pollinators and serves as an attractive cut flower. It attracts bees, butterflies, birds, and other pollinators and is a host plant for the pipevine swallowtail butterfly (*Battus philenor*).
The plant thrives in full sun and reaches a mature height of 1.5 to 3 feet, with a spread of about 18 inches. It grows well in well-drained clay, loam, and sandy soils, preferring hot locations.
The stems are long and leafless, while the lower leaves are feathery and deeply cut. The seed heads produce ripened seeds that serve as an excellent food source for birds during the winter months.
Companion plants for Mexican Hat include Liatris, Echinacea, bronze fennel, aster, Penstemon, and Monarda. The plant is also resistant to rabbits. To maintain vigor, it is recommended to divide the plants every 2-3 years.
Historically, Native Americans brewed tea from the leaves and stems to treat various ailments, including headaches, stomachaches, respiratory issues, snakebites, and poison ivy.
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