Remarks

A terrific variety for the prairie garden, though requiring prairie conditions -- good soil with good drainage and more frequent watering than our native, E. angustifolia. Coneflowers are all the rage right now with many new introductions every year, ranging from white, yellow, orange to the popular purple. Most of these should be located in your medium to high water-use area. The richer the soil and with weekly watering (high), you'll enjoy grander blooms. A good border plant in the transition area between turf and medium water-use. E. purpurea will also appreciates afternoon shade, if it can get it.

Use in Garden

Native prairie garden. Middle to back of a mixed border in full sun, or afternoon shade. A medium to higher water use bed.

Maintenance

Deadhead in late winter. Topdress bed with an inch of compost spring and fall.