Coneflowers readily show their colors wherever they're planted.(Home & Garden)(The art of gardening)

Daily Herald (Arlington Heights, IL), June, 2007

Byline: Diana Stoll The Planter's Palette Purple coneflowers are a mainstay in the summer garden. Their botanical name, inspired by the spiky cones in the center of each flower, comes from the Greek word echinos, which means hedgehog. This native prairie plant has earned its place in our hearts and gardens because of its beauty, hardiness, and appeal to wildlife.

Its cones offer a resting spot and nectar for butterflies; its seed heads provide nourishment to birds in the winter. Coneflowers also entice beneficial pollinators into the landscape. When its flowers are cut fresh, the tall sturdy stems support daisy-like blooms that are incredibly long-lasting in arrangements. The cones can also be used in dried arrangements or to add interest to everlasting...