The showy daisy-like flowers of Pale Purple Coneflower bloom in early summer and are a favorite nectar source for pollinators, including butterflies and hummingbirds. Later in summer the large seed heads attract Goldfinches and other birds. Echinacea pallida is highly adaptable, tolerating drought, heat, humidity and poor soils, but it will not like soils that are too moist with poor drainage. Once established the deep taproot enables a long-lived, very low maintenance plant that is capable of handling hot dry situations with ease. This iconic prairie plant looks its best in a naturalized setting that includes other prairie flowers and grasses, or in a mixed border garden.
Native Americans have recognized the medicinal value of Echinacea for centuries. Today, the plants are widely used, in supplements and herbal teas, for their numerous health benefits.