Echinacea purpurea

PURPLE CONEFLOWER
Family: Asteraceae
Pronounced: ek-in-AY-see-ah pur-PEWR-ree-ah

Quick Jumps

Growing Guide
Rainy Side Notes
Leave Comment

---

GROWING GUIDE

Geographic Origin:
North America.
Plant Group:
Perennial herb.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: All (Western).
USDA zones: 3-9.
Mature size:
Height: 2-3 feet (60-90cm).
Width: 18 inches (45 cm).
Flowering period:
Midsummer to early autumn.
Flowering attributes:
Brown disks surrounded by purple-red reflexed petals.
Leaf attributes:
Hairy, ovate basal 6-inch leaves.
Growth habit:
Clump-forming.
Light:
Full sun.
Soil:
Humus rich, well-drained soil.
Feeding:
Side dress with compost or manure. Fertilize in spring with a complete organic fertilizer.
Propagation Methods:
Sow seed at 68°F (20°C) in spring.
Divide in autumn of spring.
Pruning Methods:
Dead head flowers for longer bloom period.

Echinacea comes from the Greek word echinos echinos that refers to the prickly receptacle scales; purpurea means purple flower.

The roots and rhizomes are used medicinally to stimulate the immune system. Very ornamental in the garden, flowering late in the season.

Good butterfly, bird and bee plant.

Photographed in author's garden.