Species

Echinacea purpureaPurple Coneflower

150 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Solar Flare Coneflower

Echinacea purpurea 'Solar Flare'

The Story

Plant Bio

Echinacea purpurea is an upright, herbaceous perennial native to North American prairies. It features large, daisy-like flowers with drooping, rose-purple rays (petals) surrounding a prominent, spiny, coppery-brown central cone.

'Solar Flare' is a hybrid coneflower known for its large, fragrant flowers with vibrant, non-fading, reddish-magenta petals held horizontally around a large, dark brown central cone. It has strong, dark stems.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid purple flowers add color and attract pollinators, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Low water needs and drought tolerance reduce maintenance effort.

Supports bees, butterflies, and birds, promoting local biodiversity.

SpeciesEchinacea purpureaPurple Coneflower

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

28 inches

Width

20 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

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 or divisions into well-drained soil in spring.
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
Place in full sun for optimal flowering.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-drained soil and full sun for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
Deadhead to prolong flowering
Divide every 3–4 years

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Use heavy mulch that retains too much moisture ❌
Neglect deadheading

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

Sunny border with vibrant purple flowersWildflower meadow accentPollinator-friendly garden

Companion Plants

Black-eyed Susan LiatrisYarrow Salvia Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Solar Flare Coneflower questions

What zones can Solar Flare Coneflower grow in?

Solar Flare 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 Solar Flare Coneflower deer resistant?

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

When does Solar Flare Coneflower bloom?

Solar Flare 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 Solar Flare Coneflower need full sun?

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

Is Solar Flare Coneflower drought tolerant?

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