Photo by Gary Kurtz
The Pale Purple Coneflower (Echinacea pallida) is a native perennial that can reach a height of up to 3 feet. It bears a distinctive flower characterized by a domed, reddish-brown central disk surrounded by slender, drooping petals that range in color from pale pink to purple. The leaves of this plant are lanceolate, hairy, and rough on both sides, with most of them clustering at the lower third of the stem. This resilient wildflower thrives in a variety of habitats, including dry to mesic prairies, open woodlands, hillsides, glades, and roadsides. It prefers well-drained soils, full sun, and can tolerate a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5, making it well-suited for a range of environmental conditions. (July)