To promote self-seeding, cut back in late winter. Cut back in late winter/early spring when you’re tidying up the garden. Cut back stems to soil level when they wither or after frost.In late fall in colder regions, lightly spread mulch around plants.They feed on insect eggs and larvae and pollinate plants.
#PURPLE CONEFLOWER INFO FULL#
Leave the seed heads after bloom and you’ll also attract songbirds such as goldfinches! As native plants with prickly stems, they are more deer-resistant than most flowering plants, too.Ĭoneflowers are striking when planted in masses, especially as a mix of various colors.Ĭoneflowers prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Coneflowers have raised cone-like centers (hence, their name) which contain seeds that attract butterflies. Their genus name Echinacea comes from the Latin name for hedgehog, echinus, referring to the often prickly lower stem of the plant. Hybrids present more colors and sizes but also caveats: Many are sterile, meaning they do not produce viable seed, and they lack genetic diversity. purpurea) is most common, but up to 9 naturally occurring echinacea can be found in purple shades or yellow ( E. Coneflowers love heat and are trouble-free once established in a traditional garden or wildflower meadow. Coneflowers have raised cone-like centers (hence, their name, which attract butterflies and bees. After bloom, the seed heads attract songbirds, such as goldfinches.
These fast growers reach 2 to 4 feet in height, flower from midsummer through fall frost, and self-sow prolifically.
#PURPLE CONEFLOWER INFO HOW TO#
They are native to the eastern and central United States, extending from Colorado south to Texas and north to the Great Lakes. Here’s how to grow this American native in your garden. Coneflowers, aka Echinacea, are tough upright perennials in the daisy family (Asteraceae).