Purple coneflower is a staple of the prairie garden. It needs full sun or light shade. It tolerates dry soils very well. The flowers are big  3" to 4" inches across, and daisy like. The species has a brownish orange disk and purple-lavender rays. The plant grows to a height of 24" to 36". There has been a lot of work done with varieties and cultivars.  There are many bloom colors available in the market. 

Purple coneflower blooms over a long period of time starting towards the end of July in this area. It attracts many butterflies and other insects so it is very beneficial as pollinator plant. Purple coneflower produces many seeds for birds such as the Eastern goldfinch. Encouraging insects and birds to the garden makes for a more pleasing atmosphere. 

Purple coneflower pairs well with monarda, tall meadow rue, black-eyed Susan's, swamp milkweed, & butterfly weed. I always include grasses in the planting to make it look more natural.  Really a great plant for your garden.