Echinacea, also known as coneflower, is a charming addition to gardens in USDA zones 3-8. This plant gets its common name from the prominent, cone-shaped central disc amidst a single layer of petals, which are slightly droopy—a characteristic shared by most echinacea species.

While the purple coneflower (E. purpurea) is the most recognized, several other species and hybrid varieties are available. Here’s why you should consider adding these tall, striking flowers to your garden:

1. Echinacea Flowers Are Eye-Catching
When you first see echinacea in full bloom, you can’t help but notice their bold beauty. The tall plants stand upright, showcasing large, daisy-like flowers that can be 4-6 inches across. These flowers are long-lasting both on the plant and as cut flowers.

2. Variety of Colors and Forms
Although E. purpurea’s purplish-pink flowers are common, other echinacea species come in various colors. E. paradoxa has yellow flowers, and E. pallida boasts very light pink blooms. New varieties now feature shades of peach, orange, red, white, and even greenish white. If you dislike the coneflower’s classic bald look, choose varieties with colorful, smaller ray flowers filling the disc.

3. Attracts Pollinators
Echinacea’s blooms last from summer into fall, offering nectar that attracts bees, butterflies, and other insects. This not only creates a beautiful scene but also benefits other garden plants by boosting pollination, thereby increasing the yield of fruits and vegetables.

4. Goldfinch Magnet in Fall and Winter
As the flowers fade, dried echinacea heads continue to lure birds, particularly goldfinches, who love the seeds. Many gardeners leave the dried plants in place to enjoy these bird visitors.

5. Native Plant
Echinacea is a North American native, crucial for the local ecosystem. Native plants support native wildlife, which relies on them for food and shelter. Introducing too many non-native plants can upset this balance, making echinacea a valuable addition.

6. Healing Properties
Recognized as a medicinal herb, echinacea has been used for boosting immunity, particularly against colds, flu, and bacterial infections. It also promotes wound healing and reduces inflammation from respiratory infections, rashes, and insect bites.

7. Make Healing Teas
Native people have long used echinacea’s roots in herbal remedies. Modern gardeners can easily make a healing tea with the plant’s leaves and flowers, which are commercially popular during cold and flu seasons.

8. Easy to Grow
Echinacea readily self-seeds and grows easily from seeds, cuttings, and divisions. It adapts well to various climates and requires minimal care, making it perfect for novice gardeners. While most echinacea species grow up to 4 feet, dwarf varieties are also available.

9. Perennial Plant
As a perennial, echinacea comes back every spring, saving you the effort of replanting annually. Echinacea clumps can sometimes even add winter interest to your garden if you leave their dried stems and seed heads, which also attract birds.

10. Drought Resistant and Shade Tolerant
Echinacea can thrive with minimal water due to its deep taproot and fleshy roots. While it prefers full sun, it can also grow well in partial shade, offering flexibility in garden placement. These tall plants make excellent backdrops in small yards.

As you plan your garden, consider including echinacea for its beauty and therapeutic benefits.