![]() ![]() Native plants need to be promoted because they are critical to the native ecosystem. It is a native plantĮchinacea is a true North American native, which explains the great attraction it holds for insect pollinators and birds. Many gardeners refrain from removing the dried up plants just to have these birds visit their garden. Goldfinches are particularly fond of echinacea seeds. It is a goldfinch magnet in fall and winterĪs the flowers fade and the nectar dries up, the flower heads of echinacea continue to attract winged beauties, but it is time for the birds now. These pollinators help increase the yield of vegetable and fruit crops that favor cross-pollination. It is a visual feast watching colorful butterflies fluttering over coneflower beds in full bloom.Īttracting bees and butterflies into the garden benefits other crops growing there. The central disc florets of echinacea flowers produce plenty of nectar that attracts bees, butterflies, and other insects into your garden. They attract pollinators to your gardenĮchinacea has a long blooming season in summer that stretches into fall. ![]() If you’re not particularly fond of the baldy look of coneflowers, go for varieties that have the center disc filled in with colorful, yet tinier ray flowers. Pure white and greenish white coneflowers are there, along with creams, cream-pinks. Hybrids of the purple and yellow coneflowers have flowers in various shades of peaches, pinks and purples, orange, and even red. Over the last few years, many new varieties in attractive shades and flower forms have been developed. paradoxa, for instance, has yellow flowers, while E. purpurea with its purplish pink flowers may be the most commonly seen, but echinacea species come in many other colors. You have several color and form variations to choose from The daisy-like flowers may be 4-6 inches across, and are long-lasting both on the plant and as cut flowers. The tall clumps stand erect, holding large, single flowers well above the foliage. The first time you come across echinacea plants in their full summer glory, this is the thought that crosses your mind. Here are some very good reasons why you should welcome these tall plants with large, showy flowers into your garden.ġ. purpurea is the most well known of coneflower species, but you can find several other species and hybrid varieties. ![]() The petals themselves are slightly reflexed or droopy, a common characteristic shared by most echinacea species. The common name comes from the cone-shaped central disc that stands out prominently among the single layer of petals. Commonly known as coneflower, echinacea is a delightful addition to any garden in USDA zones 3-8. ![]()
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