Purple Coneflower

Description

Echinacea purpurea, commonly called purple coneflower, is a native perennial forb (wildflower) that grows in moist prairies, meadows and open woods of the central to southeastern United States.

The flowers are cross-pollinated by long-tongued bees, bee flies, Halictid bees, butterflies, and skippers. Among long-tongued bees, are such visitors as honeybees, bumblebees, digger bees (Melissodes spp.), and leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.). Butterfly visitors include Monarchs, Fritillaries, Painted Ladies, Swallowtails, Sulfurs, and Whites. The caterpillars of the butterfly Chlosyne nycteis (Silvery Checkerspot) feed on the foliage, while the caterpillars of several moths feed on the flowerheads. The Eastern Goldfinch occasionally eats the seeds during the summer and early fall.

Livestock find this plant quite palatable during the growing season.

Easily grown in average, dry to 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 soil. 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. Good fresh cut or dried flower. Excellent, long-blooming flower for massing in the border, meadow, native plant garden, naturalized area, wildflower garden or part shade area of woodland garden. Often massed with black-eyed Susans (rudbeckias).

Habitats include moist to mesic black soil prairies, edges and openings in woodlands, savannas, thickets, and limestone glades.

This species is commonly used in the following mixes: Shadows & Sunbeams Mix, Buck’s Hangout Mix, Butterfly & Hummingbird Mix,