Description

This coneflower grows in serpentine soil in moist places in the far northern part of California and southern Oregon. LIke many plants that thrive in serpentine soils, it does not require that soil chemistry to thrive. Following winter dormancy, waxy coneflower sends up leaves that are lance-shaped to oval and light green with a waxy blue tinge. The flowers rise on long stocks with yellow petals and the cone shaped center that explains the common name. This rare perennial expands laterally year by year. Provide ample moisture and a sunny location to grow an expanding patch of waxy coneflower. The spent flowers may be removed to encourage additional blooms or allowed to mature and produce seed for birds.