Ruby Star Coneflower produces an abundance of large, carmine red to purple petals with big, pincushion-like, dark bronze-brown central cones attract all types of butterflies. The large 4" flowers bloom from June through August with some later blooms possible through October. Plants thrive in average well-drained soils or hot, dry conditions, and are equally at home in full sun or partial shade. Blooms last well as cut or dried flowers, and the large cone at the heart of the flower head turns black as the seeds mature, adding further interest and providing nourishment for birds.

Height: 3' to 3' 6" Landscape Usages: Woodland Border, Garden Pond, Landscape Beds, Small Groups, Mass Planting Growth Rate: Moderate Colors: Purple Resistant To: Deer Resistant, Drought, Disease, Insect, Heat Type: Wild Flower, Deciduous, Perennial Theme Gardens: Butterfly, Cottage, Perennial, Rock

Spread: 1' 6" to 2' Attracts: Butterflies, Songbirds / Birds Characteristics: Flower Fragrances: None Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Mostly Sun, Partial Shade, Morning Sun Foliage Color: Green Seasons of Bloom: Summer Blooms, Fall Foliage, Fall Blooms Soil Needs: Ammended Clay, Average, Dry, Well-Drained Water Needs: Low USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Ruby Star Purple Coneflower Feeding Instructions

Feed in Spring and then on an as needed basis through late Summer. We generally recommend a slow-release granular flower food, higher in the middle number: this is phospherous, which helps to promote strong root systems, strong stems and plenty of flowers. Alternatively, you may use a natural or organic, non-burning plant food. Refer to product label for application rates and instruction.

Ruby Star Purple Coneflower Pruning Instructions

Spent flowers and/or stems can be deadheaded or sheared throughout the season to encourage new growth and/or flower buds. Dead foliage can be cut back to ground after plant goes dormant in winter.

Ruby Star Purple Coneflower Pest Instructions

This plant is generally not prone to serious pest or disease problems. In the event that a pest or disease problem occurs, treat with a product containing neem oil. Neem oil is a safe, triple-action product that can be used to control insects, mites and diseases.