Purple Coneflower
Purple Coneflower is a hardy flowering perennial known for its large, daisy-like blooms with pinkish-purple petals surrounding raised, coppery-orange centers. The flowers appear from early summer into fall, providing long-lasting color while attracting butterflies, bees, and other beneficial pollinators.
After flowering, the seed heads can be left standing to provide food for goldfinches and other birds during fall and winter. They also add texture and natural interest to the garden after the petals fade.
Purple Coneflower is heat tolerant, drought tolerant once established, and well suited for pollinator gardens, cottage gardens, wildflower areas, sunny borders, and mass plantings. It performs best in full sun with well-drained soil.
Removing faded blooms can encourage additional flowering, but leaving some seed heads in place is helpful for wildlife. Divide crowded clumps every few years if flowering begins to decline.
Plant Details
Plant Type: Flowering Perennial, Native Perennial
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Part Sun
Bloom Color: Purple, Pink, Coppery Orange Center
Bloom Time: Summer, Fall
Mature Height: 2-4 feet
Mature Width: 1-2 feet
Hardiness Zone: 3-8
Soil Moisture: Average, Well-Drained
Deer Resistance: Moderate
Care Level: Easy
Pollinator Friendly: Yes
Pruning Time: Late Fall, Early Spring
Notes
Purple Coneflower grows and flowers best in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, it tolerates heat, humidity, clay soil, and short periods of drought. Deadheading faded flowers may encourage additional blooming, but leaving some seed heads through fall and winter provides food for birds and adds seasonal interest. Avoid overly wet soil, especially during winter, because the roots may rot. Divide crowded plants every few years if flowering begins to decline.
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