Michael A. Stecker
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Similar in appearance to the Black-Eyed
Susan (Rudbekia
hirta),
the Purple
Coneflower and its three cousins, Black Sampson (E. angustifolia),
Pale Purple Coneflower (E. pallida) and E.
atrorubens (no common name), are members of the sunflower family
or Compositae. The Compositae have two kinds of flowers combined in one
flower head - strap-like ray flowers around the outside of the head and
disk flowers in the center of the head. The ray flowers make up what
would be thought of as the petals. Height: 2-3 feet They are robust, drought tolerant
perennial, native to the midwestern and southeastern United States. The
flowers are arranged individually on sturdy, elongated stems with soft
lavender or purple petals surrounding an iridescent red-orange, coned
center. Prefers full sun to partial shade in fertile, well-drained soils.
Absolutely stunning!!! |
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