Pale Purple Coneflower

Name: Echinacea pallida
Color: Pink, Purple
Sections: 4

Echinacea pallida, commonly known as Pale Purple Coneflower, is a striking, deeply taprooted perennial native to the tallgrass prairies of the central United States. It is easily distinguished from other coneflowers by its long petals that droop downward from a reddish-brown cone. Blooming from early to mid-summer, the solitary flower heads sit atop tall distinctly bristly stems, with foliage concentrated mostly near the base of the plant. Its minimalist structure brings a graceful element to the landscape.

Grow Guide

  • Light: Full Sun (tolerates light Part Shade)
  • Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–9
  • Size: 2–3 feet tall (occasionally reaching 4 feet) with a spread of 1–2 feet
  • Watering: Dry to medium. Thanks to a robust central taproot, it is highly drought-tolerant once established and thrives in well-draining, rocky, or sandy soils.
  • Best Use: Perfect for prairie restorations, native plant meadows, pollinator gardens, and water-wise borders. The blooms are highly attractive to butterflies and native bees, while the dried seed heads provide vital winter forage for songbirds like goldfinches. It is generally resistant to deer, heat, and poor soils.