Pale Purple Coneflower

Echinacea pallida (Pale Purple Coneflower) is a lesser-known relative of the more frequently sold Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower). It differs in that it grows taller and more slender, yielding an elegant look with gracefully falling ray petals. It also develops a deep tap root that effectively accesses moisture locked in the soil profile compared to the shallower, fibrous roots of Purple Coneflower, making it a great pick for xeric plantings slightly too dry for Purple Coneflower. Being tap rooted, Pale Purple Coneflower does not divide well or transplant well once established, so site this plant thoughtfully. It makes a good cut flower and is especially interesting dried. This North American prairie native self-sows lightly in favorable settings.