Common Name: Purple Coneflower
Latin Name: Echinacea Purpurea
Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones: 3,4,5,6,7,8,9
Summary: A perennial, usually 2 to 3 feet tall, of dry prairies. Flower heads have purple rays and a raised, spiny center. The slender stem and 3-nerved leaves are covered with coarse hairs. Echinacea has tall stems, bears single flowers that are pink or purple, and has a central cone that is usually purplish-brown in color. The large cone is actually a seed head with sharp spines that resemble a stiff comb. Of nine echinacea species, only three are used for medicinal purposes.
This is my favorite perennial, it never needs staking, and is a real show stopper. The color is a blend between pink and purple and the distinctive orange cone sets this plant apart. It is very hardy, and easy to care for. The bloom season begins in June and continues until late fall if you dead head regularly. This makes an excellent cut flower and even after the bloom has died the dried cones are an attractive feature for the winter garden.
For the first time this year I am growing " Ruby Giant" which claims to produce 7" flowers and produce a strong fragrance. It was a splurge purchase ay Wayside Farms and I hipe it proves worth the cost. I wil keep you posted.
send questions or comments to - lhemenway@santarosa.edu
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