Echinacea tennesseensis

Tennessian Coneflowers

Echinacea tennesseensis — commonly called Tennessee Coneflower — is a rare native perennial valued for its upright, non-drooping rosy-pink petals surrounding a prominent dark cone, appearing from early to mid-summer. Dark green, slightly coarse foliage forms a tidy, upright clump and remains attractive through the season, sometimes developing muted tones in fall. Its more upright flower form, compared to other coneflowers, and its native heritage make it an excellent choice for naturalized plantings and pollinator gardens.

Mature Size:
Width: 12–18 in
Height: 18–24 in

USDA Zones: 5a–8b
Light: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained soils; tolerant of poor, rocky, or sandy conditions
Water: Low; drought tolerant once established
Wildlife: Attracts native bees, butterflies, and songbirds (seed heads)

Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Upright, clump-forming perennial with strong stems
Excellent for native plantings, prairie gardens, pollinator gardens, and naturalized areas
Distinct upright petals differentiate it from other Echinacea species
Adapted to dry, open sites
Deer resistant and low maintenance

Maintenance:
Deadhead to extend blooming or leave seed heads for winter interest
Cut back in late fall or early spring
Avoid frequent division due to deep root system

Plant type

Perennial

Height

18-24"

Width

12-18"

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Summer, Summer

Flower color

Violet

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Clay, Normal, Sandy, Well Drained

Shape

Clumping, Upright

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No