Gardening with Colorful Native Plants

In addition to its purple daisy-like petals that gently droop, the most striking characteristic of Purple Coneflowers (Echinacea purperea) are the prickly, glowing orange centers. According to Geyata Ajilvsgi in Wildflowers of Texas, the Greek word echinos means hedgehog, referring to the sharp center cone that sticks up beyond the blooms.

Perennial in zones 3-9, these coneflowers grow up to 3 feet tall and have rough leaves. The smooth stems hold 3-4″ flowers, which bloom prolifically Summer through Fall. In the Aster family, Purple Coneflowers like sun to part shade, average soil, and are somewhat drought tolerant. Aphids and leafhoppers are their primary pests.

Wildlife Attractant

All-important to every garden, honeybees and bumblebees are attracted to the composite, daisy-like flowers and feast on Purple Coneflower’s sweet nectar, as do butterflies such as Painted Ladies, Monarchs, Swallowtails, and Fritillaries. Hummingbirds will come to coneflowers, not only for the nectar, but the small insects the blossoms will attract; these insects are an important part of their diet. The many seeds are sometimes eaten by Goldfinches, and the plant is generally deer-proof.

Wonderful for Flower Arrangements

Purple Coneflowers are long-lasting in cut arrangements, staying fresh for a week or longer. As a plus, cutting the flowers will promote production of blooms in the garden.

Purple Coneflowers Naturalize with Ease

Readily available in nurseries, Coneflowers may be started from seed, cuttings or root division. You can store dried seeds you’ve collected for sowing in the Spring, or sow them directly after collecting. If naturalized in your garden, let the seeds scatter in the Fall and cut the plants back to the rosette. Plants can also be divided and moved.

Medicinal Uses

Echinacea leaves and dried roots have been used by Native Americans, as well as American and European herbalists, to treat infections, colds and to boost immunity. When sulfa drugs became available in the 1920s, Echinacea was used less, but has since regained its popularity. It is most commonly sold in capsules and as a tincture. Dr. Andrew Weil says “The root produces a curious and distinctive numbing sensation when held in the mouth for a few minutes. If a commercial preparation does not do this, it is not good.”

It is best to take Echinacea two weeks at a time, then two weeks off, so it does not lose its efficacy. As with any supplement, it is best to check first with your doctor, especially if you take other herbal or prescription medicines.