Commonly known as coneflowers, the genus Echinacea comprises nine species of herbaceous perennial plants in the Asteraceae family that are native to the prairies and open woodlands of the eastern and central regions of North America. They attract butterflies, provide seed for birds, and make great cut flowers. In addition, Echinacea has been used medicinally to boost the immune system and treat cold and flu symptoms.

A bee dines on one of the High Line’s Echinacea purpurea blooms.Photo by Steven Severinghaus

Echinacea prefers growing in full sun to light shade in moist, well-draining soil. Once established, Echinacea can survive periodic drought conditions due to roots that store water. The plants typically grow two to four feet tall, with erect stems supporting large, bright blooms that provide a long-lasting display of color throughout the summer. Seemingly endless cultivars of Echinacea are available in the trade, offering a myriad of colors and flower forms. They are certainly a cheerful element to complement almost every sunny garden.

Eleven different species and cultivars of Echinacea can be found throughout the High Line, including Echinacea tennesseensis, which was recently removed from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants. Echinacea’s sturdy stems and characteristic cone-shaped seed heads provide a stark contrast to the lighter tones and more delicate textures of the dormant grasses that dominate the winter landscape of the High Line.

WHERE TO FIND THIS PLANT:
Clusters of Echinacea can be found throughout the High Line from the Washington Grasslands, at Gansevoort Street, to West 34th Street.

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