Coneflowers are a backyard favorite thanks to their toughness, long bloom time, and ability to attract pollinators. Known for their raised centers and colorful petals, coneflowers thrive in sunny garden beds with very little care once established.
They are drought-tolerant, cold-hardy, and return year after year, making them ideal for low-maintenance gardens. From classic purple varieties to bold modern hybrids, these are the most popular types of coneflowers to grow in your backyard.
1. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Purple coneflower is the most well-known and widely grown coneflower variety. It features pinkish-purple petals surrounding a raised orange-brown center. This variety is extremely hardy, drought-tolerant once established, and blooms from early summer through fall, making it a reliable choice for backyard gardens.
2. White Swan Coneflower
White Swan coneflowers offer clean white petals with a golden-brown center. They provide a softer, more elegant look compared to purple varieties. This variety thrives in full sun, attracts pollinators, and works well in mixed flower beds.
3. PowWow Wild Berry Coneflower
PowWow Wild Berry coneflowers are compact plants with vibrant magenta-pink blooms. They bloom early and continue flowering throughout the season. This variety is ideal for small gardens, borders, and container planting.
4. Magnus Coneflower
Magnus coneflowers are known for their large, bright pink petals that stay more horizontal than other types. They bloom heavily in midsummer and have strong, upright stems. This variety is popular for its bold color and classic coneflower shape.
5. Cheyenne Spirit Coneflower
Cheyenne Spirit coneflowers produce blooms in a wide range of colors, including red, orange, yellow, pink, and purple. They add variety and visual interest to backyard gardens. This variety is easy to grow and performs well in sunny garden beds.
6. Green Twister Coneflower
Green Twister coneflowers feature striking green and pink petals that fade into purple toward the center. They add a unique, modern look to backyard gardens. This variety is hardy, long-blooming, and works well as a focal plant in mixed flower beds.
7. Double Scoop Coneflower
Double Scoop coneflowers have full, double blooms that resemble small pom-poms. They come in shades of pink, raspberry, and white. This variety offers a softer look than traditional coneflowers while still being easy to grow and low maintenance.
8. Hot Papaya Coneflower
Hot Papaya coneflowers are known for their vibrant orange and red tones. They bloom from midsummer into fall and add warm, bold color to backyard landscapes. This variety thrives in full sun and attracts butterflies.
9. Tomato Soup Coneflower
Tomato Soup coneflowers produce rich, deep red blooms that stand out in garden beds. They have strong stems and hold their color well throughout the season. This variety is a favorite for adding dramatic color contrast.
10. SunSeekers Series Coneflower
The SunSeekers series offers compact plants with sturdy stems and vibrant blooms. These coneflowers are bred for strong garden performance and uniform growth. They work well in borders, containers, and smaller backyard spaces.
11. Sombrero Coneflower Series
Sombrero coneflowers are compact plants with bold, saturated colors. They bloom heavily and have strong stems that hold up well in the garden. This series is ideal for borders, containers, and low-maintenance backyard gardens.
12. Butterfly Kisses Coneflower
Butterfly Kisses coneflowers are a dwarf variety with soft pink, double blooms. They stay small and neat, making them perfect for containers and front-of-bed plantings. This variety adds charm without requiring much space or care.
13. Fatal Attraction Coneflower
Fatal Attraction coneflowers are known for their dark stems and rich purple blooms. They create strong contrast in mixed flower beds and look great alongside lighter-colored plants. This variety is hardy, reliable, and long-blooming.
14. Milkshake Coneflower
Milkshake coneflowers produce creamy white, double blooms with a soft, fluffy appearance. They bring a gentle, elegant look to backyard gardens. This variety prefers full sun and performs well in traditional garden beds.
15. Yellow Coneflower (Echinacea paradoxa)
Yellow coneflowers are unique for their bright yellow petals and classic cone-shaped center. They are native to parts of North America and are extremely hardy. This variety is perfect for naturalized gardens and pollinator-friendly landscapes.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.