Coneflower
Scientific Name: (Dracopis amplexicaulis)
Definition: Clasping-leaved Coneflower is part of the large Sunflower Family (Asteraceae). The plant grows 12 - 28 inches high on a solitary stem which branches at the top. The flower head is about 2 inches across, solitary and ends on a long slender branch. 5 - 9 yellow petals, at the base usually a reddish brown, surround the feature for which this flower derives its name. The central disk flowers are brownish, and form an elongated dark "cone". Coneflower prefers low, moist, often clay soils, especially in prairies and flood plains. Clasping-leaved Coneflower is extremely showy when in bloom, and the plants form large colonies. Blooms May - June.