Echinacea purpurea 'Bright Star' – Red-Purple Coneflower with Copper Cones

Purple Coneflower 'Bright Star' (Echinacea purpurea 'Bright Star')

Echinacea purpurea 'Bright Star' (eh-kih-NAY-shah per-per-EE-ah) is a native meadow derivative with daisy-like flowers blooming from early summer into early autumn. It has prominent copper-orange central cones surrounded by red-purple ray petals up to 5 inches across, and grows to less than 3 feet tall. Synonym: 'Leuchtstern'.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Attracts butterflies, bees, and birds in winter if cones are left on plant.

Growing Conditions & Care

Grow in deep, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerant of drought, heat, humidity, and poor soils. Cut back stems to promote more flowering and reduce excessive self-seeding. Deadheading prolongs flowering.

Propagation

Sow seed at 55°F in spring. Divide clumps in spring every 3 to 4 years. Take root cuttings from autumn to early winter.

Potential Problems

Leaf miners, powdery mildew, bacterial spots, and gray mold. Vine weevils may feed on roots.

Quick Reference

• Height/Spread: 1–3 ft.
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Moisture: Dry to medium
• Maintenance: Low
• Bloom Time: Early fall to summer
• Flower Color: Salmon, Purple, Red
• Uses: Beds, borders, cut flower, dried flower, naturalizing, cottage gardens, meadow gardens
• Type: Perennial
• Special: Drought tolerant