Echinacea purpurea, also known as Purple Coneflower, is a perennial wildflower native to Michigan, maybe.* This is the poster child for the native plant movement. It is every bit as showy as its non-native counterparts. Purple Coneflower reaches 4 feet tall and flowers from July to August with a large purple blossom. To extend the purple bloom time, pair with Pale Purple Coneflower which blooms slightly earlier.
 
Purple Coneflower prefers full sun and moist, loamy soil. However, it can tolerate part shade and medium-dry soil and will grow in clay, loam or sand. May need water during drought. It is extremely popular with butterflies and bees, and is a host plant for Checkerspot butterflies and several showy moths. The pithy stems are used by tiny, solitary native bees as nest chambers, so be sure are leave about 18” of stem if you are trimming them back. The long stems also make this a great cut flower. When the dry stalks are left over winter, the seeds are a popular bird food source.
 
Purple Coneflower is best grown in groupings of 3, 5, or more plants. This increases the visual impact and concentrates nectar resources, making it a more appealing stop for butterflies and birds. This easy-to-grow, showy, useful flower is a must-have for any garden.