This treasured, heirloom wildflower, native to the eastern U.S., is a long-lived perennial that blooms for a month or more beginning in midsummer. The pinkish-purple petals of the stunning, daisy-like flowers surround a large, dark brown cone. Petals begin to droop as the cone enlarges and fills with seeds, which attract birds in the fall and winter. Echinacea grows well in a variety of conditions, and is excellent for borders and water-wise gardens. Perfect for fresh cut flowers.
Family: Asteraceae
Native: Eastern and central U.S.
Hardiness: Hardy perennial in USDA zones 3–8; grown as an annual in warmer zones.
Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Bloom Period: Summer to frost
Plant Dimensions: 3'–4' tall
Variety Info: 2"–3" long, drooping lavender petals surrounding a purple/maroon/brown conical center on tall stems above foliage.
Attributes: Cut Flowers, Deer Resistant
When to Sow Outside: 2 to 4 weeks before your average last frost date, or as late as 2 months before first fall frost.
When to Start Inside: 10 to 12 weeks before your average last frost date (might bloom first year if started indoors).
Days to Emerge: 10– 20 days
Seed Depth: ¼"
Seed Spacing: A group of 3 seeds every 18"
Thinning: When 1" tall, thin to 1 every 18"