Echinacea, or CONE FLOWER, is a member of the Compositae (Aster) family comprised of 11 species. Three species – Echinacea angustifolia, purpurea, and tennesseensis – are cultivated as are numerous cultivars. They grow to 3-4 feet tall, flower in summer, and grow from seed in Zones 3-10. Most grow in dry conditions and prefer to be grown in full sun.

Echinacea purpurea grows to 3 1/2 feet high and 2 feet wide. The large pink blossoms are an attractive roost for butterflies. It can be grown in containers - preferably 18" or larger. It is native to the Eastern United States.

Many butterflies will come to Compositae, including those listed here on the left. Echinacea are particularly attractive to Danaus plexippus, Monarch. Bees like this plant too.