“Biological diversity is the key to the maintenance of the world as we know it.”
~ E.O. Wilson, Biodiversity
Basal leaves on long, partly-winged stalks; leaf margin smooth on early leaves, becoming coarsely toothed on later leaves; leaves broadest at the base and tapering to a pointed tip
To 3 feet
May-October
Flower heads are showy and quite large. The orange disk is surrounded by 10 to 20 long petals in various shades of magenta.
Commonly found in Missouri in open woodlands and savannas. Purple coneflower does well in a variety of soils in full sun to light shade. Commonly used in native forbs seeding mixes and is easy to establish from seed. Often blooms the second year after establishment and is a good food source for wildlife and nectar source for insects.