Bloom Color

Interesting Notes

A native of the dry prairies and open woodlands of North America, Echinacea purpurea, or coneflower, has long been a favorite of perennial gardeners for its upright stems and daisylike blooms, which attract birds and butterflies. A favorite of professionals as well, one variety, Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus', was selected the 1998 perennial plant of the year by the Perennial Plant Association. A relative of the sunflower, 'Magnus' features a bronze raised central cone surrounded by wide, flat, nondrooping carmine petals on 2- to 4-foot stems. An easy-to-grow plant, it offers long midsummer bloom and makes an excellent cut flower. After flowering, the petals can be removed and the cone dried for use in wreaths and dried flower arrangements. Although 'Magnus' is slow to start in the spring, it loves the sun and grows quickly with the onset of hot summer weather. It prefers well-drained soil and will tolerate drought conditions, which makes it the perfect choice for summer gardens. 'Magnus' can be massed at the back of a perennial border or showcased as a single specimen, and it is equally at home in native gardens or in more formal plantings. Its brilliant red-pink color works well with the delicate blues of Perovskia, and its rounded shape nicely complements the linear lines of Liatris. Perennials on Parade

Botanists named the plant after the hedgehog (Echinus) to describe its prickly, conelike center. Herbnet.com

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Full sun in well drained soils. Prefers moist soils, but once established will tolerate dry soils. Does not benefit from additional fertility.