General Culture:
Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun. An adaptable plant that is tolerant of drought, heat, humidity and poor soils. Divide clumps when they become overcrowded (about every 4 years). Plants usually rebloom without deadheading, however prompt removal of spent flowers improves general appearance. Freely self-seeds if at least some of the seed heads are left in place.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
This purple coneflower is a coarse, hairy, Missouri native perennial found primarily on limestone glades, fields, prairies and along railroads throughout most of the State. Features narrow, parallel-veined, toothless, dark green leaves (4-10" long) and large, daisy-like flowers with drooping, pale pinkish-purple petals (ray flowers) and spiny, knob-like, coppery-orange center cones. Flowers appear on rigid stems to 2-3' (less frequently to 4') tall over a long summer bloom. This species is distinguished by its thin, extremely-reflexed rays which almost droop straight down and by its very narrow, parallel-veined leaves which have no teeth. Best flower display is in late June to late July, with sporadic continued bloom into autumn. Good fresh cut or dried flower. The dead flower stems will remain erect well into the winter and, if flower heads are not removed, are often visited by goldfinches who perch on or just below the blackened cones to feed on the seeds. Echinacea comes from the Greek word "echinos" meaning hedgehog in reference to the spiny center cone.
Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems. Japanese beetle and leaf spot are occasional problems.
Uses:
Mass in the border, native plant garden, naturalized area, prairie, wildflower meadow or part shade areas of woodland garden.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2010
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