Coneflower Echinacea purpurea 'Sombrero Salsa Red'

Dating back to the 1700's, coneflower is an herbaceous perennial in the Asteraceae (daisy) family that is native to central and eastern USA. It may grow 3 to 4 feet tall and produce pinkish-purple flowers that mature in early summer through mid-fall. Many cultivars are available for varied sizes and colors.  Several pollinators are attracted to the flower, especially butterflies. Leave some of the flower heads on to produce seeds for the birds.

This plant prefers well-drained moist loams but is adaptable to various soil types. Growing in fertile soil may cause the plant to become leggy.  It is drought tolerant once established and can grow in full sun to partial shade. It is easily propagated by seed and will reseed itself in the garden.  Leaving the seed heads intact through the winter months will provide seed for the winter bird population as well as adding to your winter garden.  

Deadheading will promote additional blooming.

This is a popular and long-blooming plant for use in the native garden, meadows, pollinator gardens and naturalized areas. 

Insects, Diseases, or Other Plant Problems: Japanese beetle and leaf spot are occasional problems.  It is susceptible to aster yellows disease.