Purple coneflower may be one of the most famous native plants! Popular before native gardening's importance was widely known, purple coneflowers have been adorning gardens everywhere for generations. This may be a good choice for those who are in a picky HOA or prefer the look of a more manicured landscape. Their native range extends all along the east coast west to Colorado.
The large, daisy-like, purple flowers are iconic and bloom from mid summer into fall. Best planted in a sunny area with moderate soils. Echinacea purpurea are tolerant of many soil conditions, and soil amendments are rarely needed. Once established, these plants are drought tolerant. Flowers can be prolific and make great cut flowers and dry well to be enjoyed throughout the seasons. The coarse stems and leaves deter deer and rabbits.
Zones: 3-8
Sun: part to full sun (4-6+ hours)
Size: 3-4' tall, 2-3' wide
Tolerant: deer and rabbit, drought, heat, humidity, salt, poor soils
Wildlife Value: a variety of pollinators will visit the flowers, caterpillars of the wavy lined emerald moth and silvery checkerspot butterfly will feed on the leaves, songbirds will dine on the seeds all winter long and stems make winter nesting sites for native bees.
Plants will ship bare root and are suitable for a 6 inch pot or to be planted directly into the soil.