Hot Papaya Coneflower, Echinacea, boasts being one of the first double Coneflowers and is still considered one of the best. From mid through late summer, highly fragrant, 3″, spicy red-orange pom-pom flowers appear. The glowing flowers put on an incredible show, especially when planted in large groups. Its long-lasting flowers make beautiful fresh bouquets that can last two weeks.

Although a hybrid of two species, Hot Papaya strongly exhibits the foliage and traits E. purpurea. The plant forms a strong, sturdy clump with robust, deep green foliage and thick stems with maroon markings. It grows about three feet tall in the landscape, making it a good choice for the middle of the flower border. It creates fabulous displays for gardens, containers, cut flower bouquets and dried arrangements. A tough, reliable variety

Plant Coneflowers in full sun to part shade. Add a shovelful or two of organic matter to soil when planting. Tolerant of drought, but for best blooming keep well watered when plants are setting up bud and in bloom. Although they will bloom continually without deadheading, cutting back spent blooms will encourage more flowers. Coneflower’s seed heads are a favorite for dried flower arrangements and add considerable interest to winter outdoor landscapes. Goldfinches and other birds swarm to Coneflower seeds.