Known by all and loved by many, Purple Coneflower is nothing short of iconic. Even gardeners who aren't familiar with native plants likely already have this classic North American species in their garden. Easy to grow with colorful, long-lasting blooms, Purple Coneflower is a hit with wildlife, too. Bees and butterflies flock from miles around to feed on the nectar and pollen, and after the flowers have faded, the tall stands of seed heads become a veritable playground for seed-eating birds, especially American Goldfinches.
Conditions: Full sun; average soil
Size: 2'-4' tall, 1.5'-2' spread
Zone: 3 - 8
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract bumblebees, long-tongued bees, and butterflies; seeds provide food for birds
Photos: Dave Korbonits, Samantha Nestory