Echinacea purpurea

Purple Coneflowers Echinacea are native to eastern North America. They are hardy, drought-tolerant, and long-blooming (July to October). Their flowers are rich in nectar which makes it very popular with bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Birds like finches eat (and spread) the seeds. If planted in early March, it may bloom but it can take up to three years to produce spectacular blooms.

Sowing

Sow indoors 8-10 weeks before planting out. Any time from mid-February to late March on the coast. Or direct sow in early spring or early fall. Germination should occur in 10-21 days. Sow seeds shallowly at only 3mm (1/8″) deep.