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Echinacea /ˌɛkɪˈneɪʃə/

Common name: Coneflower · Purple coneflower

Echinacea is a genus of herbaceous perennials in the aster family, native to the prairies and open woodlands of eastern and central North America. Coneflowers produce daisy-like blooms with a distinctive spiky central cone, typically in shades of purple and pink. They are prized in gardens for their drought tolerance and value to pollinators.

Care summary

Sun Full sun to light shade
Water Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
Soil Well-drained; tolerates poor and rocky soils
Hardiness Zones 3–9
Mature height 0.6–1.2 m (2–4 ft)
Pet safe Generally considered non-toxic

Fun facts

  • Echinacea is one of the most popular herbal supplements, traditionally used to support the immune system.
  • The name comes from the Greek word for "hedgehog," referring to the spiky central cone.
  • Leaving seed heads standing in winter provides food for goldfinches and other birds.
  • Coneflowers were used medicinally by Great Plains Native American tribes for centuries.

Common problems

    • Plant in free-draining soil
    • Avoid heavy mulch over the crown
    • Space plants for good air circulation
    • Water at the base in the morning
    • Hand-pick slugs in the evening
    • Use wildlife-safe barriers around shoots