Purple Coneflower
Scientific Name: Echinacea purpurea
Plant Family: Asteraceae
Native Region: Central and Eastern North America
Brief Description
A herbaceous perennial forming a dense basal rosette of lance-shaped, dark green leaves with prominent veins. While only leaves are visible here, it eventually produces tall stems topped with daisy-like flowers with reflexed purple petals and spiny orange-brown centers.
Care Instructions
Low-maintenance. Provide full sun and well-draining soil. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and require little fertilizer; a light application of compost in spring is sufficient.
Medicinal Value
We do not currently provide medicinal value for plant identifications.
Sunlight
Full sun (6+ hours per day) for best flowering, though it can tolerate partial shade.
Watering
Medium to low. Water regularly during the first growing season. Once established, it is very drought-tolerant; only water during prolonged dry spells.
Soil
Prefers well-drained loamy soil but is adaptable to clay and rocky soils; pH 6.0 to 7.0.
Hardiness Zone
3 to 8
Growth Habit
Clump-forming perennial. Reaches a mature height of 2-4 feet and a spread of 1.5-2 feet. Moderate growth rate.
Bloom Season
Mid-summer to early fall. Large, showy purple-pink ray florets around a conical, spiny central disk.
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans, dogs, and cats. Safe for gardens with pets.
Propagation
Best propagated by seed (requires cold stratification) or by dividing established clumps in early spring or fall.
Common Pests & Issues
Generally pest-free, but may occasionally suffer from Japanese beetles or Aster Yellows (a viral-like disease that causes stunted, green growth). Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Similar Species
Echinacea angustifolia (shorter with narrower leaves) and Rudbeckia hirta (Black-eyed Susan, which has hairier leaves and yellow flowers).
Interesting Facts
The name 'Echinacea' comes from the Greek word 'echinos', meaning hedgehog, referring to the spiny central cone of the flower.
Created At: 2026-05-12T18:06:11.688354