Species

Echinacea purpureaPurple Coneflower

150 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

'Prairie Frost' Coneflower

Echinacea purpurea 'Prairie Frost'

The Story

Plant Bio

Echinacea purpurea, or purple coneflower, is an upright, herbaceous perennial native to North American prairies. It is prized for its large, daisy-like flowers featuring prominent, spiny, coppery-orange central cones surrounded by drooping ray petals. Its coarse, dark green leaves are ovate to lance-shaped.

The 'Prairie Frost' cultivar is uniquely distinguished by its striking variegated foliage. Each leaf has a wide, creamy-white margin that provides interest from spring until frost. It produces classic pinkish-purple coneflowers on sturdy stems in summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid purple flowers attract pollinators and add color to sunny gardens.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping.

Supports bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

SpeciesEchinacea purpureaPurple Coneflower

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

33 inches

Width

21 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks
Place in full sun for optimal blooms
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil and full sun for best growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Deadhead to prolong flowering
Divide every few years to maintain vigor
Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t cut back in late fall; wait until early spring
Do not fertilize excessively, as it may reduce flower production

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Harvest
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Pollinator-friendly borderSunny perennial bedDrought-tolerant xeriscape

Companion Plants

Black-eyed Susan Lavender Yarrow Russian sage Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

'Prairie Frost' Coneflower questions

What zones can 'Prairie Frost' Coneflower grow in?

'Prairie Frost' Coneflower is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is 'Prairie Frost' Coneflower deer resistant?

Yes — 'Prairie Frost' Coneflower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does 'Prairie Frost' Coneflower bloom?

'Prairie Frost' Coneflower typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does 'Prairie Frost' Coneflower need full sun?

'Prairie Frost' Coneflower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is 'Prairie Frost' Coneflower drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), 'Prairie Frost' Coneflower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.