There are nine species of Echinacea, but the flowers we are most familiar with come from the species E. purpurea. This includes the popular purple coneflower and its white cousin, 'swan'. Given rich, amended soil, plants reach a height of 3 to 4 feet and produce flowers 4 to 6 inches across. In most varieties, the petals droop after growing outward from the cone, accounting for the name given to the plants in the Ozarks: droops. Their long, strong stems make them ideal candidates for the cutting garden. Coneflower, native to the open woods and prairies of Ohio and Iowa south to Louisiana and Georgia, makes a showy backdrop for low-growing summer annuals or perennials.
Coneflowers enjoy a sunny location with fertile soil. Nutrient-poor soil may require the addition of compost, manure or organic fertilizer. As the roots of the plant are vulnerable to damage from water, the soil must drain well. In damp climates, a raised flowerbed may be necessary. New plants and seedlings require more frequent watering until they are established. Once they are growing well, they will thrive on the available moisture from rain except in extremely dry areas.
Regular weeding is a must because Echinacea doesn't compete well with weeds, but other that that, plants require very little care. Expect blooms from June to October in most areas. Echinacea will be one of the last plants in your garden to go dormant.
The roots, stems, and flowers of Echinacea have medicinal uses. Prized as an immune system booster, extract of the plant or a tea brewed from its dried constituent parts can be produced from homegrown plants.