Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea ‘Bright Star’) eh-kih-NAY-shah per-per-EE-ah Synonyms:  'Leuchtstern' Genus:  Echinacea This native meadow derivative with daisy-like flowers blooms from early summer into early autumn. 'Bright Star' has prominent, copper-orange central cones surrounded by red-purple ray petals (to 5 inches across), and grows to less than 3 feet tall. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Attracts butterflies, bees, and birds in winter if cones are left on plant.  Care:  Grow in deep, well-drained soil in full sun. It is 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 degrees in spring. Divide clumps in spring every 3 to 4 years. Take root cuttings from autumn to early winter. Problems:  Leaf miners, powdery mildew, bacterial spots, and gray mold. Vine weevils may feed on roots.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Song Birds, Attracts Butterflies, Native, Self Seeds, Showy Flowers, Showy Seed Heads Bloom Time Early Fall, Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Salmon, Purple, Red Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Dried Flower, Naturalizing Style Cottage Garden, Meadow Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Tolerance Drought Tolerant Type Perennials