The Purple Coneflower is ahardy perennial that makes a spectacular display when established. Plants are quite tall, 40-45″, and produce an abundance of bluish-purple flowers, 4″ across, from July to September. Give them plenty of room as they will spread to create a very striking plant.

100 seeds

PLANTING

Echinacea Purpurea

Perennial, zones 4-8

Germination:10-21 days

Germination Temperature:Optimum soil temperatures 70-75F.

Seed Planting Depth:Sow deep

Starting Indoors:Start indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75F soil temperature. Transplant after the last frost, 18-24″ apart.

Sowing Outdoors:Mid-spring and fall

Growth Habit:Upright

Height and Width:40-45″ by 18-24″

Spacing:18-24″ apart

Light Needs: Full sun

Soil Needs:The Purple Coneflower needs average, well-drained soil

Approximate days to flower from seed:Blooms in the first season when started early indoors, mid to late summer thereafter.

Uses:Flower beds, cottage and wildflower gardens, cut flowers, attracts pollinators and birds

Care:Water seedlings regularly until established. Amend the soil with compost before transplanting. Cut back stems as the blooms fade, this encourages more flower production. Dont cut the plant down in fall, leave the edible seedheads up for the birds