Purple Coneflower - Echinacea Purpea 'Bright Star'
Echinacea purpurea ‘Bright Star’ is a standout coneflower prized for its luminous rose-pink petals and strong, upright growth. Each bloom features a rich coppery-orange cone surrounded by evenly spaced, daisy-like rays that hold their color well through the heat of summer. This hardy perennial thrives in full sun and tolerates drought once established, making it both low-maintenance and ecologically beneficial. Long bloom duration and sturdy stems make Bright Star an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, naturalized plantings, or cut flower use. As a North American native selection, it supports bees, butterflies, and songbirds, contributing to a more sustainable garden ecosystem.
Applications in the Garden
Ideal for pollinator gardens where it attracts bees, butterflies, and seed-eating birds
Excellent for sunny borders and meadow-style plantings that need consistent summer color
Blends naturally with other prairie perennials like black-eyed Susans, grasses, and liatris
Suitable for cut flower gardens due to its long stems and extended vase life
Works well in low-maintenance or drought-tolerant landscapes once established
Provides strong structure and vertical interest even after flowering when seed heads remain
Planting Tips - Coneflower
Choose a sunny site; coneflowers need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day
Plant in well-draining soil—sandy loam or average garden soil works best
Avoid overly rich or wet soils, which can weaken stems and reduce flowering
Space plants about 18 inches apart to allow airflow and prevent fungal issues
Water regularly during the first growing season, then sparingly once established
Deadhead faded blooms to encourage continued flowering through late summer
Leave seed heads standing into fall for birds and winter visual interest
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Echinacea Purpurea Leuchtstern |
| Variety Name: | Purpurea Bright Star |
| Height: | 36″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 3-8 |
| Sun or Shade: | Full sun |
| Plant Classification: | Perennial |
| Planting Season: | Spring or Fall |
| Bloom Season: | Summer – Fall |
| Bloom Cycle: | Deadhead for continuous rebloom |
| Bloom Duration: | 2 months |
| Planting Depth: | 3″-4″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Grow in deep, humus-rich, well-draining soil |
| Water Requirements: | Average |
Troubleshooting - Coneflower
Flopping stems – usually caused by too much shade or nitrogen; ensure full sun and avoid overfeeding
Powdery mildew or leaf spots – can develop in humid conditions; improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering
Poor flowering – often from crowded conditions or inadequate sunlight; divide clumps or move to a sunnier spot
Crown rot – results from soggy soil; amend with grit or compost to improve drainage
Pest damage – Japanese beetles may chew petals; handpick or use traps away from flower beds
FAQ - Coneflower
Q: Is coneflower deer resistant?
A: Yes. Deer generally avoid coneflowers due to their coarse texture and aromatic foliage.
Q: Is coneflower toxic to pets or people?
A: Coneflower is considered non-toxic, though it isn’t meant for consumption by pets.
Q: Should coneflowers be cut back in fall?
A: You can, but leaving seed heads through winter adds visual interest and provides food for birds.
Q: How long do coneflowers live?
A: Echinacea purpurea varieties like ‘Bright Star’ typically last several years and can be divided every three to four seasons to maintain vigor.