Species

Echinacea purpureaPurple Coneflower

150 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Secret Coneflower

Echinacea purpurea 'Secret'

The Story

Plant Bio

Echinacea purpurea 'Secret' is a herbaceous perennial featuring daisy-like flowers with large, purple petals and a prominent central cone, complemented by toothed, lance-shaped green foliage.

This cultivar is prized for its vibrant, deep purple blooms and excellent drought tolerance, making it a popular choice for low-maintenance, ornamental perennial borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright, cheerful blooms enhance sunny borders and attract pollinators.

Drought-tolerant and deer resistant, ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

Supports bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

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, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

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 lightly into moist soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Plant in well-draining soil with full sun exposure.
Space plants 18 inches apart for good airflow.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Water deeply once a week during dry spells.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and full sun for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during prolonged dry periods 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don't prune in late fall or winter
Never use heavy, clay-based soil without amendment
Avoid shady locations where it won't bloom

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Harvest
Mulch
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Sunny perennial border with vibrant purple flowersWildflower meadow accentPollinator-friendly garden bed

Companion Plants

Black-eyed Susan Lavender Coreopsis SalviaYarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Secret Coneflower questions

What zones can Secret Coneflower grow in?

Secret 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 Secret Coneflower deer resistant?

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

When does Secret Coneflower bloom?

Secret Coneflower 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 Secret Coneflower need full sun?

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

Is Secret Coneflower drought tolerant?

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