Clasping Coneflower (Dracopis Amplexicaulis)

Clasping Coneflower

Features and Characteristics

Dracopis amplexicaulis is sometimes called clasping coneflower because its leaves clasp the stems. It is an annual that is native from Georgia to Texas north to Missouri and Kansas. In Missouri, it is typically found along roadsides, waste areas, along streams and in prairies in several counties in the western part of the state (Steyermark). This is a small-flowered glabrous composite that resembles Mexican hat (see Ratibida) in flower shape. It typically grows 18-24” tall. Flowers (to 2” across) feature columnar dark brown center disks (to 1” long), each with 5-10 drooping yellow ray flowers which may have orange or brownish-purple at the ray bases. Blooms in summer. Oblong to ovate leaves (to 4” long) are toothed to entire and clasp the stem. Steyermark lists this plant in the monotypic genus Dracopis, distinguishing it from Rudbeckia by the presence of chaff subtending the ray flowers. Synonymous with Rudbeckia amplexicaulis.

Genus name come from the Greek drakon meaning dragon for the appendages on the style.

Specific epithet means stem-clasping.

Care and Maintenance

Annual that is easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Perhaps best in moist, organically rich soils. Tolerates light shade. Also tolerates heat, drought and a wide range of soil conditions except poorly-drained wet ones. For best results from seed in the St. Louis area, start seed indoors around March Set out seedlings in the garden after last frost date. Seed may also be sown directly in the garden at last frost date. Deadhead spend flowers to encourage additional bloom and/or to prevent any unwanted self-seeding. Will remain in the garden through self-seeding.

Clasping Coneflower (Dracopis Amplexicaulis) Requirements

Hardiness zone	2 - 11
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Uses

Beds, borders and native plant areas.

Clasping Coneflower (Dracopis Amplexicaulis) Details

Common name	Clasping Coneflower
Botanical name	Dracopis Amplexicaulis
Plant type	Annual
Family	Asteraceae
Hardiness zone	2 - 11
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Yellow Rays With Dark Brown Center Disk
Flowering period	July - September
Height	1.50 To 2 Ft.
Width	1 - 1.50 Feet