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Thin-leaf Coneflower

Rudbeckia triloba

Last reviewed: June 2026

Thin-leaf Coneflower (Rudbeckia triloba)
Photo: b:User:SBJohnny / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

24"–60" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct

Native to

AL, AR, CO, CT and 29 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, beetles

Thin-leaf coneflower produces masses of small, bright yellow daisy-like flowers from summer through fall. This plant forms upright clumps with delicate, deeply-lobed foliage that creates an airy texture in the garden. It's drought tolerant once established and provides reliable color during the hottest months.

In an HOA neighborhood

Thin-leaf Coneflower is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: mid zone, foundation, backyard only.

  • Can reach 5 feet tall and may appear too informal for strict HOAs
  • Self-seeds readily which some may view as weedy

Wildlife value

Host plant for silvery checkerspot butterfly, gorgone checkerspot butterfly.

The abundant small flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles throughout its long bloom period. Seeds provide food for goldfinches and other songbirds in fall and winter.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Thin-leaf Coneflower fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.