![]() There are nine species of coneflower native to North America. Echinacea is derived from the Greek word “echinos,” meaning hedgehog, which refers to the spiny seed heads. Purple coneflowers are members of the genus Echinacea. Purple coneflowers are fantastic butterfly-attracting plants. The foliage color can range from pale to dark green. The name is derived from the beautiful flowers, with their purple petals and dark center cones. Their movement and grace are perfect complements to coneflower’s bright beauty and there are numerous varieties from which to choose that often produce fascinating inflorescences to add double interest to the garden.Purple coneflowers can really make a statement in the home garden and landscape. Ornamental grasses that prefer sunny, well-drained soil are excellent Echinacea companions. Lily turf has strappy leaves, is often variegated, and is hardy in most zones. Outstanding blue-green leaves or burgundy foliage offer options for contrast. Smoke bush may get a little large but is an excellent foliage plant for the back of the perennial garden. Heuchera, or coral bells, are tough perennials with fluted leaves and numerous colors from which to choose. Many of the new coleus cultivars are now just as happy in the sun as they are in shade. If you are wondering what to plant with coneflowers, there are many foliage plants that will provide just the right accent amongst the blooms. Other companion plants for Echinacea might be:Ĭompanion planting with Echinacea isn’t just about the flowers. Goldenrod provides a cloud of lemony blooms, while sedum plants have puffs of pink to yellow flowers on hardy succulent bases. A sea of jewel tones and softer pastels will draw pollinators like a magnet and improve the overall health of your landscape. If you want to bring in the bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, a flowering and fruiting garden can help and there are many brightly colored choices. Pollinator Attracting Companion Planting with Echinacea Other native coneflower companion plants include: Lupines come in an array of tones and are early season color, while hardy geranium creates a carpet of jewel tones and makes an excellent base plant in the bed. Gaillardia has all the tones of a sunset, while black-eyed susan brings cheery yellow and a similar rayed flower. It has bright orange blooms and does indeed attract butterflies. An excellent native to pair with Echinacea is butterfly weed, or Asclepias. Because they are native, they are very adaptable to the existing conditions and do not require as much care as introduced species. Native plants are perfect for the perennial garden. These easy bloomers are hardy to United States Department of Agriculture zones 3 to 9. Echinacea is native to the central and eastern parts of North America. Another garden scheme to consider is to use all natives as companions for Echinacea. When contemplating what to plant with coneflowers, consider other flowering plants as well as foliage superstars to enhance their beauty. Coneflower Companion PlantsĮchinacea produces a rayed flower that spans 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm.) in width. To create a lively color bed, choose Echinacea companions that offer dimension as well as tones and textures that set off these stoic beauties. Companion plants for Echinacea should have similar cultural requirements and can create a bed with attractive blooms for any beneficial insect. They attract pollinating insects and add statuesque color to a perennial flower garden. These cheery, pinkish-purple flowers can grow up to 3 feet (1 m.) in height with a similar spread. Echinacea, or purple coneflower, is an outstanding perennial that thrives on neglect. ![]()
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