Lovely.

2005
Cut Flower
of the
Year

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Height: 36"

Spread: 24"

Bloom Time: Mid to Late Summer

Sun to Part Sun

Hardiness Zone: 3-8

Cost: $7.00

One of the best new strains from Jelitto Seed. E. 'Ruby Star' is similar to E. 'Magnus' in that they both hold their petals in a refined, horizontal arrangement, not drooping like the species. However, the petals of 'Ruby Star' are more substantial with a deeper magenta-red color. Praised for their large, daisy-like flowers which appear from midsummer thru fall, after many other perennials have finished blooming, Coneflowers are a mainstay in today's garden. If deadheaded, the bloom cycle will be extended. However, some spent blooms should be left on the plants in fall because their seeds provide winter food for finches and other birds. The dried seed heads also provide architectural interest in the winter.

FUN FACT: The word "echinacea" comes from the Greek word "echinos" meaning "hedgehog", referring to the flower's spiky central cone.

Homeowner Growing & Maintenance Tips:
Echinacea purpurea is a wildflower native to the eastern United States and is well-adapted to survive the hot, windy conditions typical of that region. If properly cared for, they will form attractive colonies and will live for many years. Coneflowers like it sunny and hot. Though they will tolerate light shade, fewer flowers will be produced and the plants will be weakened. Light, loamy soils are best but coneflowers will grow in any well-drained soil. Once established, they are quite drought tolerant.

Information and photos courtesy of Walters Gardens