I took this photo today on my morning "walk about" before the heat of the day. Purple Coneflower Echinachea purpurea, is a drought tolerant perennial and is one of the very best butterfly and bee attractors. Even though this plant calls for full sun or partial shade, I find that because of the broad leaves it easily wilts in the hot afternoon soon, especially when it is young. So, I need to give it a quick, cold shower almost every day that the temperature rises. It makes me wonder why they classify this as a Xeric plant, but once it blooms it is pretty tough. I think it is one of the most beautiful flowers in the garden. I would love to explore some of the other colors. Tomorrow is going to be hotter yet so I know I will be out there with the hose. It still beats throwing water down the gutter at dried up turf, however. And a pretty alternative too.
