Coneflower

Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea, Asteraceae) is a perennial native to eastern and central North America, reaching 3 to 4 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide. A domed, purplish-brown, spiny central disc is ringed by drooping lavender ray florets, with individual flower heads up to 5 inches across. Bloom occurs from June through August on stiff, hairy, deep green stems. The species has a long history in herbal medicine.

Purple coneflower grows in sun to part shade on moist, well-drained loam, adapting to clay and sand, hardy in Zones 3a to 8b. It is resistant to deer browse and tolerates drought, heat, and humidity once established. Goldfinches feed on the seeds. Maintenance is low. Documented disease associations include southern blight. Cultivars include 'Magnus' (upright, large flowers) and 'White Swan' (white ray florets), with 19-plus selections documented.