Species

Echinacea purpureaPurple Coneflower

150 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Purple Coneflower Dark Shadows

Echinacea purpurea 'Dark Shadows'

The Story

Plant Bio

Echinacea purpurea is a perennial herbaceous plant featuring daisy-like flowers with reflexed ray petals and a prominent central cone, complemented by coarse, lance-shaped green foliage.

This cultivar is distinguished by its intensely colored, deep magenta-purple petals that create a dramatic look, held on strong, dark stems.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant purple blooms that attract pollinators and birds, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for sustainable gardens.

Supports bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting healthy ecosystems.

SpeciesEchinacea purpureaPurple Coneflower

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Transplant young plants after last frost, around 6 weeks.
Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to promote reblooming
Apply compost annually for healthy growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen fertilizers
Refrain from disturbing roots when dividing

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Pollinator-friendly borderColorful perennial bedWildflower meadow

Companion Plants

Black-eyed Susan Lavender Yarrow Coreopsis Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Purple Coneflower Dark Shadows questions

What zones can Purple Coneflower Dark Shadows grow in?

Purple Coneflower Dark Shadows is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Purple Coneflower Dark Shadows deer resistant?

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

When does Purple Coneflower Dark Shadows bloom?

Purple Coneflower Dark Shadows typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Purple Coneflower Dark Shadows need full sun?

Purple Coneflower Dark Shadows does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Purple Coneflower Dark Shadows drought tolerant?

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