Narrowleaf Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia) is a rugged prairie perennial valued for its slender petals, deep rose-purple blooms, and strong wildlife appeal. Known for thriving in dry, sunny climates, this native wildflower attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators throughout the summer. Its compact size and long taproot make it ideal for xeriscapes, native meadows, rock gardens, and low-maintenance landscapes needing resilient color.
Features
- Pink-purple daisy-style flowers with narrow petals and bold cone centers.
- Non-GMO Echinacea angustifolia native prairie variety.
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial pollinators.
- Extremely drought-tolerant once established.
- Compact perennial suitable for rock gardens and dry borders.
- Long-lived plant with very low maintenance needs.
Specifications
- Common Name: Narrowleaf Echinacea, Narrow-leaved Purple Coneflower
- Scientific Name: Echinacea angustifolia
- Plant Type: Perennial flowering wildflower herb
- USDA Zones: 3–9
- Bloom Color: Pink to rose-purple petals, orange cone
- Height: 18–30 inches
- Spread: 12–18 inches
- Growth Habit: Upright, clumping, deep taproot
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Preference: Well-drained sandy or rocky soil
- Water Needs: Low; drought tolerant
- Bloom Season: Summer
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes (bees, butterflies)
- Wildlife Support: Cones provide seeds for birds
- Maintenance: Very low
- Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
- Seed Viability: 2–4 years stored cool & dry
Planting Guide
- For best germination, cold stratify seeds 4–6 weeks (refrigerate in moist medium).
- Start indoors or direct sow in fall or early spring.
- Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep and keep soil lightly moist.
- Germination may take 14–30 days, longer in cool soil.
- Transplant seedlings outdoors after frost danger has passed.
- Choose full sun and well-drained soil, especially sandy or rocky ground.
- Avoid frequent watering once plants are established.
- Leave seed heads on plants for winter bird forage, or trim after blooming.