Echinacea are native meadow perennials with daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white with prominent, cone-shaped, brownish-yellow to orange central disks.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsErect, hairy stems with bristly dark green leaves. Solitary flowerheads in various colors with distinctive raised central cone. Medicinal. Attracts butterflies, bees, and birds in winter if cones are left on plant.
CareGrow in deep, well-drained soil in full sun. Coneflowers do not require high fertility. Cut back stems to promote more flowering and reduce excessive self-seeding. Deadheading prolongs flowering.
PropagationSow seed at 55°F in spring. Divide clumps in spring every three to four years. Take root cuttings from autumn to early winter.
ProblemsLeaf miners, powdery mildew, bacterial spots, and gray mold. Vine weevils may feed on roots.
