Echinacea paradoxa, commonly known as Yellow Coneflower or Bush's Coneflower, is a unique and striking perennial that stands out in the Echinacea genus due to its unusual yellow petals. Unlike most other Echinacea species, which typically have pink or purple flowers, Echinacea paradoxa features bright yellow, daisy-like blooms with drooping petals surrounding a prominent, spiky brownish-orange central cone. This species is native to the Ozark regions of Missouri and Arkansas in the United States, where it thrives in rocky, well-drained soils.
Echinacea paradoxa typically grows to a height of 60-90 cm (2-3 feet) with a spread of about 30-45 cm (12-18 inches). The plant forms a clump of sturdy, upright stems topped with its distinctive flowers, which bloom from late spring to mid-summer, adding a splash of vibrant color to the garden. The lance-shaped, slightly hairy green leaves form a basal rosette, from which the flowering stems emerge.
This species thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, making it ideal for rock gardens, borders, and prairie-style plantings. It is hardy in the UK, typically to RHS hardiness rating H6, meaning it can withstand cold winter temperatures down to around -20°C (-4°F). Echinacea paradoxa is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance, making it a resilient choice for gardeners. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies, and the seed heads can be left standing to provide winter interest and food for birds.
Echinacea paradoxa is often used in breeding programs to develop new cultivars with different colors, and it is prized for its bold, golden-yellow blooms that offer a refreshing contrast to the more commonly seen pink and purple coneflowers. Whether used as a standout specimen, in mixed borders, or in naturalistic garden designs, Echinacea paradoxa brings a unique and vibrant touch to the landscape.
