Nature’s Fireworks
Eastern purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) is known around the world for its medicinal properties, its versatility as a cut flower, and as a valuable nectar source for pollinators. The upright, spiky central disk ( the genus name is from the Greek echinos, meaning "hedgehog,") and trailing pinkish/purple petals bring to mind a summer fireworks display. This popular native perennial is easily grown in a variety of conditions and will readily self-sow, so you’ll have plenty to share with friends and neighbors!
And when the show’s over, be sure to leave the seed heads standing over the winter as an important food source for songbirds.
Happy Independence Day from the SBG!
Photo: Danyelab, PIxabay
Eastern purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) is known around the world for its medicinal properties, its versatility as a cut flower, and as a valuable nectar source for pollinators. The upright, spiky central disk ( the genus name is from the Greek echinos, meaning "hedgehog,") and trailing pinkish/purple petals bring to mind a summer fireworks display. This popular native perennial is easily grown in a variety of conditions and will readily self-sow, so you’ll have plenty to share with friends and neighbors!
And when the show’s over, be sure to leave the seed heads standing over the winter as an important food source for songbirds.
Happy Independence Day from the SBG!
Photo: Danyelab, PIxabay