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The coneflower is distinguised by its prominent brownish orange cone and the drooping ray petals that surround its base. Like so many wildflower species, it requires a well drained soil. It grows best where the soil is neutral or a bit on the alkaline side. Conflower is reported to grow as tall as four to five feet in parts of its native range, but expect a shorter plant in Louisiana, probably from one and one half to two feet. It time, it will develop a large clump which may be divided as a source of new plants. Coneflower produces an abundance of seed which are relished by birds, especially finches. Uneaten seed are, of course, an important means by which the plant propagates itself. When Louisiana summers get into high gear, so does the purple coneflower, which presents its attractive blossoms at the tips of its stiff stems for all to enjoy. Not one to give up easily, the perennial puts out sporadic blooms well into the fall season; occasionally, there are a few to greet the first frost. It should be planted in full sun on well drained soils. After it's well established, don't worry about watering; it's very much accustomed to arid conditions.
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