Drought Tolerant

Purple coneflowers are a drought-tolerant wildflowers with a deep fibrous root system, typically harvested after 3 to 4 years. Its flowers feature a spiny cone at the center, surrounded by drooping petals that range from light to dark purple, although some cultivars may have red or white blooms.

Daisy-like Flowers

Echinacea purpurea is a lavender, daisy-like flower that's perfect for cutting and adding to floral arrangements. Known for its extended blooming period, it thrives in the garden and continues to display its vibrant color until the end of summer. This durable flower makes a beautiful, enduring addition to any outdoor space.

Soil Erosion Control

For soil erosion control, a pH range of 6 to 7 is recommended. This range allows for optimal nutrient availability and ensures the most efficient use of both natural and applied nutrients. Maintaining this pH balance supports healthy plant growth and improves soil stability, making it effective in preventing erosion.

Deer-Proof

Purple coneflowers are naturally unpalatable to deer, making them ideal for gardens with frequent wildlife. Despite deterring deer, they provide vibrant blooms that attract pollinators like butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Their hardy nature and ability to thrive in various conditions make them a resilient, low-maintenance for any garden.

Purple Coneflower (Echinacea Purpurea) - Echinacea, (pronounced Ek-i-nay-see-a), commonly known as purple coneflower, is a herbaceous, drought tolerant, perennial plant with four species and six varieties all indigenous to North America, of which three, E. pallida var pallida, E. pallida var angustifolia, and E. purpurea, are grown commercially. Used in perennial borders for over 200 years, the species E. purpurea in particular is widely known, and it grows readily from Purple Coneflower seeds. Today, a move back to more natural tonics and medicines and our eclectic approach to health are contributing to a resurfacing of traditional uses of medical herbs such as echinacea. Some European countries, in particular Germany, are very familiar with the purple coneflower herb and have added many Echinacea herb products in the marketplace.

The traditional use of the Echinacea drought tolerant herb plant was considered helpful for the common cold, toothache, burns and external sores, sore throat, psoriasis, rheumatism, stomach cramps and to counter the effects of poison ivy and snakebite. It has more recently claimed to be a blood purifier, an anti-infection agent (viral and bacterial), an immune system strengthener, and snakebite antidote.

Purple coneflower wild flower seed species are found throughout central and Southeastern USA in open woods, prairies and along roadsides. The species E. pallida var. angustifolia makes its way up to South-eastern Saskatchewan and Southern Manitoba. This is quite tolerant of drought, though grows better in cultivation with adequate watering, and can tolerate fairly diverse soil types. The species E. purpurea enjoys moist areas and is often found along creeks and in seepage areas. Purple coneflower is generally indigenous to soils with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Selection of good sites will be important for this wildflower seed crop since it is a root crop and a deep well drained loam to sandy loam soil will be best for growing and harvesting. The extreme tolerances of physical and chemical soil characteristics are not known.

Purple coneflower generally has a deep fibrous root system and is harvested at three or four years old. All wildflower seed species have a spiny cone in the centre of the flower, (thus the name echinacea from echinos meaning hedgehog in Greek) and generally have light to dark purple drooping ray flowers (petals), though some cultivars are red or white. The coarse, generally hairy stems are mostly erect, either single or branched and from 24 - 36 inches tall. The basal leaves are generally slender with a long petiole (leaf stalk), to small leaves with no petiole at the top of the stem. It is important that you properly identify the purple coneflower wild flower seed species you grow and keep them separate as different parts are used from different species and they will cross pollinate.

Plants are generally started from wildflower seed. A soil mix of 1:1:1, peat, sand and soil by volume is suggested. Literature also suggests that surface or very shallow wildflower seeding gives better results as light has some influence on germination.

If sowing Coneflower herb seeds outdoors, wait in the spring until the daytime temperature consistently reaches 70F. Sow purple coneflower wildflower seed shallow, 1/8 inch and keep the soil surface moist. Mulch over the wild flower seed is considered essential for outdoor seeding and a depth of 1/2 inch of clean straw should be effective. There are about 150,000 purple coneflower seeds per pound in E. purpurea. Purple coneflower wildflower seed will keep in sealed containers in a freezer or in a cool dry room for several years.

Echinacea Purpurea Purple Coneflower is not weed tolerant, thus weeding is an important factor. There are no herbicides registered for field grown purple coneflower, only ornamental and none are applied for, as the industry prefers to grow organically. One of the best ways to reduce weed problems in purple coneflower plantings is to prepare the land at least one year in advance. This should rid the soil of perennial weeds and reduce the annual weed population. This should also reduce the population of insects, such as cutworm and wireworm. The straw mulch suggested for outdoor wildflower seeding will not reduce weed occurrence to any extent, while weed infested straw may increase it.

Insects, diseases, slugs, snails, nematodes, etc., are not mentioned to any extent in any available literature. As with weeds above, no chemicals are registered for these pests on purple coneflower wildflower and if the industry wishes to use organic products, (such as BT, pyrethrum, rotenone, etc.) these will have to be registered and receive a PCP No. before they are legal. Planting purple coneflower wildflower seed too dense may increase the incidence of fungal problems, especially if plantings are protected causing poor air circulation.

Diseases such as fusarium, sclerotinia, pythium, phytophthora, and verticillium have been found on purple coneflower. The disease aster yellows is a problem on this wildflower and is spread by leafhoppers. There is no control for leafhoppers so rouging out infected plants is about the only thing you can do. If you are interested in more information on diseases, Alberta Agriculture has a good factsheet on this disease. See info.basket.gov and click on special crops, then search for echinacea.

Nutrient requirements are another area where little information is available for Echinacea Purpurea wildflower seed. A soil in the pH range of 6-7 is suggested as best. This will also give the best release of soil available nutrients and make the most effective use of applied nutrients. A general nutrient balance for root crops should be sufficient. Literature suggests that lower nitrogen levels give higher essential oil production, so this would be one element to pay attention to. It is also suggested that nitrogen be applied in three applications, not all at one time. A soil analysis done before applying any nutrients or soil amendments is necessary, and will at least show major deficiencies. This will give your Echinacea herb seeds the best chance of success.

This information is just a snippet from agf.gov. If you want the complete information just vist this link: Purple Coneflower

Large, Daisy-like Flowers

White Swan Coneflower is known for its large, daisy-like white blooms and russet cones, attracting butterflies from all around. These Echinacea flowers have a delightful fragrance, making them a perfect addition to any flower garden. The huge white blooms are long-lasting and burst atop hardy native plants that bloom freely throughout the season.

Drought Tolerance

White Swan Coneflower is highly drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens. Once established, these hardy perennials can withstand hot, dry conditions while continuing to bloom beautifully throughout the summer. Their resilience ensures they thrive even in tough weather, with minimal care required.

Erosion Control

Flowers from these cone flower seeds is not only beautiful but also effective for erosion control. Its deep, sturdy root system helps stabilize soil on slopes and in garden beds, preventing erosion while adding a vibrant display of white blooms. This makes it an excellent choice for naturalized areas, meadows, or any landscape needing both beauty and soil retention.

Ornamental Value

It offers exceptional ornamental value with its striking, large white blooms and contrasting russet cones. Perfect for garden borders, naturalized areas, or meadows, this perennial adds beauty and texture to any landscape, while attracting pollinators like butterflies and bees, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.

White Swan Coneflower (Echinacea Purpurea alba) - It has a wonderful scent that you will love to add to your xeriscape flower garden. Huge, pure white, wonderfully fragrant blooms burst on top of these hardy native plants that bloom freely over a very long season. White Swan Coneflower is simply one of the most beautiful plants for the garden, and they easily establish from Echinacea seeds.

Distinctive Flower Shape

The Pale Purple Coneflower features a distinctive flower shape and is simple to grow from seeds. However, it is not an aggressive self-sower, so you won't have to worry about it spreading to areas where you haven’t intentionally planted the seeds. This makes it easy to manage in your garden while still enjoying its beauty.

Rich Nectar and Pollen Source

It is visually striking and a rich source of nectar and pollen. Its abundant blooms attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to any garden. By planting this perennial, you support your landscape with vibrant colors, creating a beautiful and lively outdoor space.

Drought Tolerant

The Pale Purple Coneflower is highly drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for gardens in regions with limited water availability. This hardy perennial thrives in dry conditions while still producing vibrant blooms that add beauty to any landscape including dry black soil prairies, savannas, abandoned fields, and areas adjacent to railroads.

Deer-Proof

It is considered unpalatable to deer, making it a smart choice for gardeners looking to protect their plants from hungry wildlife. Its tough, unpalatable foliage helps keep deer at bay while still providing vibrant blooms that attract beneficial pollinators, ensuring a beautiful and thriving garden without the worry of damage from deer.

Pale Purple Coneflower (Echinacea Pallida) - Start Echinacea seed for this perennial, drought tolerant, wild flower that many people also consider to be an herb for its numerous medicinal purposes. It is believed that this flowering plant has the ability to boost the immune system. Pale Purple Coneflower is native to the U.S. and has its most active growth period in the spring and summer. It has a long life span relative to most other plant species and a moderate growth rate. At maturity, typical Echinacea Pallida plants will reach up to 3 feet high and can live 20 years. The flower itself is about 3 inches across, consisting of a prominent reddish brown cone of disk florets, which are surrounded by 12 - 20 light purple ray florets. Grow any place where water conservation is important.

Bright Yellow Petals

This Yellow Coneflower closely resembles the Pale Purple Coneflower in size and shape, but it stands out with its bright yellow petals instead of the typical purple hues. The flower features daisy-like petals encircling a brown central cone, offering a striking contrast to the more common purple varieties.

Pollinator Support

Yellow coneflowers provide excellent support for pollinators, attracting nectar-seeking butterflies and bees throughout the blooming season. Its vibrant flowers offer a reliable food source in the summer, while the seed heads serve as nourishment for birds in the fall, making it an ideal choice for promoting health in gardens and outdoor spaces.

Drought Tolerant

This wildflower is highly drought-tolerant, making it an ideal choice for low-maintenance gardens and is perfect for xeriscape landcapes where water conservation is desired. Its deep taproot allows it to thrive in hot, dry conditions without the need for frequent watering. This ensures the plant remains vibrant and healthy, even in challenging areas.

Landscaping and Aesthetic Appeal

Yellow Coneflower adds exceptional aesthetic appeal to any landscape with its vibrant yellow petals and daisy-like blooms. Its striking contrast against greenery makes it a focal point in garden beds, borders, and meadows. Ideal for naturalized landscaping, it enhances visual interest while providing a low-maintenance, healthier garden.

Yellow Coneflower (Echinacea Paradoxa) - Grown from flower seeds, this Yellow Coneflower is very similar in stature and form to Pale Purple Coneflower; however, it has brilliant yellow petals instead of the characteristic purple shades that are most often seen. It has daisy-like petals around a brown central cone, and this Echinacea plant has a deep taproot so it can survive intense sun and drought like conditions. Perfect for xeriscaping.

Purple Coneflower Magnus (Echinacea Purpurea Magnus) - This stunning coneflower was named the 1998 Perennial Plant of the Year! A well-behaved plant with bold six-inch wide, reddish-pink flowers. Attracts butterflies; perfect for the informal, nature-inspired garden. Excellent cut flower and perfect for xeriscape landscaping where water conservation is important.

Magnus is a distinctive, vigorous and large growing cone flower cultivar. The bright reddish-pink petals of its huge flowers are held flat as they radiate out from the cone, instead of curving backwards as is typical of most coneflowers.

Vibrant Deep-Rose Blooms

Echinacea coneflower seeds produce vibrant, deep-rose blooms that capture attention with their rich color. These purple coneflowers offer striking beauty from summer to fall, adding dynamic shades to any perennial garden. Their bold blooms attract pollinators and bring life to your outdoor space.

Compact, Bushy Form

This echinacea plant has a compact, bushy form, making it perfect for smaller gardens or containers. The sturdy structure supports coneflowers and their distinctive shape, allowing these perennial flowers to create a full and visually appealing display in garden beds.

Drought Tolerant

Coneflower seeds perennial varieties, like Echinacea, are known for their drought tolerance. These cone flowers thrive in sunny, dry environments with minimal watering. Their resilience in dry conditions makes them ideal for lively gardens that require less maintenance and water.

Hardy Perennial

Echinacea coneflower seeds grow into hardy perennials through various seasons. These live plants return year after year, providing consistent color and beauty in gardens. Their durability and ability to thrive in diverse environments make them a reliable addition to any perennial landscape.

Purple Coneflower PowWow Wild Berry (Echinacea Purpurea PowWow Wild Berry) - PowWow Wild Berry is a drought tolerant purple coneflower that features large, deep rose-purple flowers in a floriferous bloom from early Summer to early Fall, sometimes with additional sporadic bloom until frost.

This variety is incredibly impressive for a seed grown Echinacea. This first year flowering perennial reportedly keeps on blooming without having to be deadheaded, though you may still want to trim back spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance. Attract birds and butterflies to your xeriscape flower garden with the beautiful purple coneflower plant.

2010 AAS Flower Winner - This AAS Winner differs from other coneflowers for flower color, branching, and plant size. The incredibly vivid deep rose-purple flowers retain color longer. This first-year flowering perennial has superior performance including a basal branching habit that results in more flowers per plant. Expect rapid and uniform flowering at a day length of 14 hours. Reaching a mid-height of 20 - 24 inches in the full sun garden, it will bloom continually without deadheading or grooming.

Yellow Coneflower Hybrid (Echinacea Purpurea Mellow Yellows) - An array of yellow hues displayed at once, opening deep mango and mellowing as they age, eventually reaching buttery ivory. Blooms from summer well into fall. Easy care, loved by bees, and a fabulous cut flower. A perennial garden favorite growing in USDA Zones 4 - 8 reaching 32 inches tall.

A beautiful and long-lasting coneflower, Echinacea purpurea "Mellow Yellows" is a seed introduction from Jelitto. Flowering in its first season, this sturdy and reliable plant is an excellent cut flower and a great source of nectar and seed to pollinators and wildlife. Echinacea are known to be drought tolerant and used in xeriscape landscaping where water conservation is important.