Mexican Hat

These are Mexican Hats, Ratibida columnaris. They are so named because they look like the traditional Mexican sombrero with the high crown and wide brim. I have seen these flowers grow in the worst soil, along caliche roads and in places where nothing else would grow, much less bloom. They seem to thrive in hot weather and will multiply quickly. In 3 short years, they have completely taken over a half acre of Dad's vacant garden spot. I kinda like 'em.