Narrow-Leaved Coneflower (Echinacea) vs Common Gaillardia

Narrow-Leaved Coneflower is a native perennial wildflower known for its pink to pale purple, daisy-like blooms. The petals (rays) droop downwards, around a dark, domed center, giving the flower a cone-like appearance. The nectar-rich blossoms attract a wide variety of pollinators, including native bees and butterflies. After flowering, the seeds provide food for birds, further adding to its ecological value.

Once established, it is drought-tolerant due to its deep taproot, which also helps stabilize soil. Narrow-Leaved Coneflower thrives in a variety of well-drained soils, including sandy, rocky, and alkaline. It often grows alongside the native grasses that characterize prairie and grassland ecosystems, making it well-suited for prairie and grassland restoration, naturalization, and pollinator gardens.

Common Gaillardia is a native perennial wildflower known for its vibrant, daisy-like blooms. Flower petals vary in color from two-tone blooms with an orange-red center and yellow tips to solid yellow. Blooming from early summer to fall, it provides continuous color while attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The seeds also serve as a food source for birds, adding to its ecological value.

Common Gaillardia is easy to grow and can tolerate heat and drought. If flowering slows in the summer heat, cutting back the plant can encourage a new round of blooms in the fall. It is ideal for pollinator gardens, xeriscaping, naturalization projects, and ornamental plantings.

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