Common Name: Purple Coneflower
Family: Asteraceae
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennial
Native Range: Tallgrass prairie and open woodlands of the Central and Southeastern United States, including parts of the eastern Great Plains such as eastern Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and southeastern Nebraska.
Hardiness Zones: 3–9
Height: 2.0 to 4.0 feet
Spread: 1.5 to 2.5 feet
Bloom Time: June to August (can extend into fall)
Bloom Description: Rose-purple petals with orange-brown central cones
Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade
Water Needs: Dry to medium
Soil Preference: Well-drained; tolerates clay, loam, and poor soils
Maintenance Level: Low
Suggested Use: Pollinator gardens, prairie plantings, cut flower beds
Attracts: Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, goldfinches
Tolerates: Drought, deer, clay soil
Notable Features: Long bloom period, seed heads for birds, upright form
Nebraska Growing Notes:
Purple coneflower is one of Nebraska’s most iconic native perennials. Found in prairies, roadsides, and native gardens across the state, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. Its deep taproot makes it drought-tolerant and long-lived, and it performs well in both formal and wild landscapes.
Large, daisy-like flowers bloom throughout the summer, attracting butterflies, native bees, and hummingbirds. As blooms fade, spiky seed heads develop—providing winter structure and food for songbirds like goldfinches.
Landscape Use:
A backbone plant for pollinator gardens, native borders, rain gardens, and wildflower meadows. Strong vertical form and long bloom season make it ideal for pairing with ornamental grasses and other prairie natives. Excellent cut flower and low-maintenance design staple.
Caution:
Avoid overwatering or heavy clay without good drainage. Deadhead to prolong bloom but consider leaving some seed heads for wildlife. May self-seed in open soils.
Garden Location: