Echinacea aka Echinacea, Purple Coneflower

Echinacea, also known as coneflowers, is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants in the daisy family. With ten species, these plants are native to eastern and central North America, thriving in moist to dry prairies and open wooded areas. Their large, showy heads of composite flowers bloom in the summer, adding beauty to gardens. The name Echinacea derives from the Greek word meaning "sea urchin" due to their spiny central disk. While some species are endangered, Echinacea purpurea is commonly used in traditional medicine. However, scientific evidence regarding its effectiveness and safety as a dietary supplement is insufficient. These compact, hardy perennials have strap-like green leaves and upright, hairy stems. Their red-orange daisy-like flowers change to pink then purple-red, surrounding a green central cone. They bloom from mid-summer and can last until autumn. Coneflowers are beloved by butterflies, bees, and birds, making them a valuable addition to any garden. With their raised cone-like centers, they attract butterflies and songbirds with their seeds. By leaving the seed heads after bloom, you can continue to enjoy their beauty and wildlife activity in your garden.