Purple Coneflower

Purple coneflower prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0 and modest fertility. A light spring compost dressing is usually enough; avoid wet winter soil and leave some seed heads for birds.

Sun

Full sun to part shade

Water

Light; drought tolerant

Spacing

18 in

First harvest

Perennial; blooms year 1–2

Tips

• Sow seeds about 1/8 inch deep or set transplants with crowns at soil level about 18 inches apart.
• Water regularly during establishment, then water deeply during extended dry periods rather than keeping soil constantly wet.
• Top-dress lightly with compost in spring and avoid heavy nitrogen fertilizer.
• Remove entire plants showing aster yellows, such as green distorted flowers, because the disease has no cure.
• Deadhead early blooms for continued flowering, but leave healthy late-season seed heads for birds.