PerennialsEchinacea purpurea
Purple Coneflower
Purple Coneflower is a sturdy perennial with distinctive pink-purple petals surrounding an orange-brown cone. The flowers appear from July to September and are a magnet for butterflies and bees. In autumn and winter, the seed heads attract goldfinches and other seed-eating birds.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 60–120 cm
- Spread
- 30–50 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 3–8
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- purple, pink
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies, birds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. The plant is drought-tolerant and needs little water once established. Apply a thin layer of compost in spring. Avoid overly wet soil — root rot is the main threat.
Pruning tips
Leave the seed heads standing after flowering for birds and winter interest. Cut back old foliage and stems in early spring to just above ground level. Deadhead during the season to extend the flowering period.
Good companions
PerennialsSalvia nemorosa
Woodland Sage
Woodland Sage is a compact perennial with striking purple-blue flower spikes blooming from June to August. It attracts plenty of bees and butterflies and works well in sunny borders. Cutting back spent flower stems often triggers a second flush of blooms.
Ornamental grassesMiscanthus sinensis
Chinese Silver Grass
Chinese Silver Grass is a striking ornamental grass that adds structure to any garden with its tall plumes and gracefully arching leaves. Silvery-white plumes appear from August to October and catch the autumn and winter light beautifully. The dried grass remains attractive throughout winter.
PerennialsNepeta × faassenii
Catmint
Catmint is a tough border plant with grey-green, aromatic foliage and soft blue flower plumes. It blooms from May to September, making it one of the longest-flowering perennials. Bees love the flowers and cats are drawn to the leaves.