Bush's Yellow Coneflower: 1 Gallon $13.99

**Bush's Yellow / Ozark Coneflower - (Echinacea paradoxa) serves as an important native host plant for the caterpillars of the Silvery Checkerspot butterfly (Chlosyne nycteis)

Beyond its role as a host, the flower attracts native bees, wasps, and butterflies with its nectar, and its seed heads serve as an important winter food source for birds like the goldfinch.

Echinacea paradoxa, sometimes called yellow coneflower, is the only species in the genus Echinacea to have yellow flowers instead of the usual purple flowers (this being the paradox suggested by the species name). It primarily occurs on glades and prairies in the Ozark regions of Missouri and Arkansas. Features large, daisy-like flowers with drooping yellow to orange-yellow petals (ray flowers) and very large, coppery-brown to chocolate-brown central cones. Best flower display is mid-June to mid-July, sometimes with sporadic continued bloom throughout the summer. Flowers grow on rigid, glabrous stems typically to 3' tall. Smooth, lance-shaped, dark green leaves (4-8" long) with linear veining. The dead flower stems will remain erect well into the winter and, if flower heads are not removed, are often visited by goldfinches who perch on or just below the blackened cones to feed on the seeds.

Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Divide clumps when they become overcrowded. Plants usually rebloom without deadheading, however prompt removal of spent flowers improves general appearance. May self-seed if at least some of the seed heads are left in place.

Zone: 5 to 8

Height: 2.00 to 3.00 feet

Spread: 1.00 to 1.50 feet

Bloom Time: June to August

Bloom Description: Yellow

Sun: Full sun

Water: Dry to medium

Maintenance: Low

Flower: Showy, Fragrant

Tolerate: Deer, Drought, Clay Soil, Dry Soil, Shallow-Rocky Soil