Echinacea pallida, also known as pale purple coneflower, is a graceful native prairie perennial recognized by its drooping pale pink to lavender petals and prominent dark cone. Its airy form and soft coloring lend a naturalistic elegance to native plantings and meadow gardens.
Height & Spread: 30 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Early to midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained sandy or rocky soil
Watering Needs: Low once established
Deer Resistance: High
NATIVE STATUS
Native to central and southeastern North America, naturally found in dry prairies and open woodlands. It is a true native species that provides high ecological value in restoration and pollinator focused landscapes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
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Frequently visited by native bees and bumblebees which rely on its accessible pollen when few prairie plants are in bloom.
Butterflies
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Serves as a nectar source for monarchs and other native butterflies during their midsummer migration and breeding periods.
Birds
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Songbirds especially goldfinches feed on the seeds after blooming if the cones are left intact through fall.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
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Plant 18 - 24 in apart to allow room for mature root systems and airy flowering stems.
Landscape Placement
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Best used in native meadows prairie gardens and naturalistic borders where its loose form and movement enhance diversity. It pairs well with grasses and other upright summer bloomers in full sun.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Sporobolus heterolepis (Prairie Dropseed) - Offers a fine textured grass base with similar dry soil tolerance.
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Liatris pycnostachya (Prairie Blazing Star) - Provides vertical floral contrast and strong pollinator support.
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Ratibida columnifera (Mexican Hat) - Adds late summer bloom and airy movement with similar habitat needs.
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Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Shares bloom time and attracts bees and butterflies with aromatic foliage.
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Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed) - Complements with bright orange flowers and shared drought resilience.