Thin-leaf Coneflower
Rudbeckia triloba
Last reviewed: July 2026
Rudbeckia triloba is a native wildflower found across much of the eastern and central United States, blooming from July through October with bright yellow daisy-like flowers.
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
Browse plants for this ecoregion
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.
Growing Thin-leaf Coneflower
Grow Thin-leaf Coneflower in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
- 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.
Common questions
- When does Rudbeckia triloba bloom?
- Thin-leaf Coneflower blooms from July through October, providing late-season color in the garden.
- What pollinators visit Rudbeckia triloba?
- This native coneflower attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it valuable for supporting diverse pollinator populations.
- Where is Rudbeckia triloba native?
- Thin-leaf Coneflower is native to much of the eastern and central United States, from Florida north to Minnesota and from the Atlantic coast west to Colorado and Texas.
- What growing conditions does Rudbeckia triloba prefer?
- This adaptable wildflower grows well in full sun to partial sun with medium moisture, though it can tolerate various water conditions once established.
- Is Thin-leaf Coneflower HOA-friendly?
- Thin-leaf Coneflower is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Thin-leaf Coneflower? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz