Echinacea purpurea Merlot (Coneflower)

Echinacea purpurea 'Merlot' (Coneflower) is a showy perennial boasting a profusion of huge, greatly fragrant, rose pink daisies, 5 in. across (12 cm), adorned with a bright orange central cone. Blooming from mid-summer until frost, the striking blossoms sit atop distinctive dark wine red stems that do not flop. This coneflower variety has a strong upright habit with well-branched stems. It is an eye-catching addition to perennial borders, prairies, wildflower gardens, or patio containers. Can be used in fresh cut or dried arrangements.

• Grows up to 27-30 in. tall (68-75 cm) and 34 in. wide (85 cm). Will freely self-seeds if some of the seed heads are left in place.
• Thrives in full sun in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Tolerant to drought, heat, and humidity.
• Perfect choice for beds and borders, prairies and meadows, wildflower gardens, or cottage gardens.
• Excellent as cut flowers. If flower heads are not removed in the fall, the blackened cones will be visited by birds that feed on the seeds.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Attractive to butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators, but deer resistant.
• Remove spent flowers and cut back the stems to encourage further blooms.
• Propagate by division in spring or fall or by root cuttings from late fall to early winter.