purple coneflower

The purple coneflower needs regular watering. Water it deeply and thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch, about once to twice a week depending on the weather. Water it in the morning so the plant leaves have time to dry off before the cooler evening temperatures. During the hot, dry days of summer, the plant may require more frequent watering. Make sure the soil never becomes completely dry, as this can negatively impact the plant’s health. If water runs off after a few minutes, spread it around the base of the plant to give adequate coverage. Once established, the plant can be quite drought tolerant, so limit watering in the fall and reduce it even further in the winter.

For best flowering and growth, purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea 'Fragrant Angel') requires full sun, which is defined as 6 or more hours of direct light daily. During hot summer days, the sun should be filtered with light shade. Morning sun is best, as it will help the flowers dry off after the morning dew. Too much afternoon sun can cause the flowers and foliage to wilt.

Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea 'Fragrant Angel') should be pruned in late spring or early summer, just after it finishes blooming. Pruning can involve removing the spent flower heads to promote reblooming, as well as cutting back the foliage to 3-4 inches above the ground. This will encourage fresh foliage and more blooms in the late summer. After the second flush of blooms, prune the plant back again, leaving it slightly shorter than in the spring. This will promote fuller clusters of flowers and keep the plant from becoming leggy.