SCIENTIFIC NAME: Echinacea purpurea 'Ruby Star'

COMMON NAME: Ruby Star Coneflower

GARDEN SIZE: 24-36 inches tall by 24 inches wide

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 4-9

EXPOSURE: Full Sun

WATER & SOIL: Prefers well-drained soil and has average water requirements.

HABIT (FORM): Upright, sturdy

FOLIAGE: Green

FLOWERS: Purplish-pink

PLANT ORIGIN: Native to Tennessee

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: Supports local bees, lepidoptera (moths and butterflies), and birds (especially finches).

FERTILIZING: Give a root stimulant or 4-3-3 fertilizer during initial planting, then feed lightly in late winter or early spring with compost or an organic fertilizer.

PRUNING: Cut back to just above soil level in early spring. Leave the seedheads in place over the fall and winter to support wildlife.

TOXICITY FLAGS: Not generally toxic

USES: Borders, containers, waterwise gardens, meadows, or prairies