Ruby Star Coneflower is a hardy perennial that brings jewel-toned blooms to gardens from summer through fall, thriving in zones 3-9 with minimal fuss. This cultivar of Echinacea purpurea reaches 30-36 inches tall and spreads 18-24 inches wide, making it substantial enough to anchor a border without overwhelming neighboring plants. Beloved by pollinators and naturally resistant to deer, it tolerates drought once established and rarely succumbs to pests, earning its place in low-maintenance, wildlife-friendly gardens.
1
Full Sun
Moderate
3-3
36in H x 24in W
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Moderate
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The flowers arrive reliably from June through November, offering an exceptionally long season of color when most other perennials have faded. Echinacea is rarely troubled by pests or diseases, and its drought tolerance means you can plant it and largely let nature take over once it's rooted in. Deer leave it alone, pollinators seek it out, and the sturdy stems hold up through wind and rain without staking.
Ruby Star Coneflower is grown primarily as an ornamental perennial, valued for its long-season blooms in summer and fall borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator plantings. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it integral to wildlife gardening. Its cut flowers last well in arrangements, extending its usefulness beyond the garden bed.
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Sow seeds indoors in late winter, keeping soil at 60-65°F. An initial cold stratification period of 3-4 weeks at 40°F can increase germination rates, though it is not essential. Seeds typically sprout in 14-21 days.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date when soil has warmed. Harden off plants gradually by exposing them to outdoor conditions for a week before planting.
Direct sow in earliest spring or in late summer to fall, pressing seeds lightly into prepared soil.
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