Echinacea tennesseensis – Tennessee coneflower ‘Rocky Top’

General Information: Tennessee Coneflower was once considered one of the nation’s rarest wildflowers. Although rare and only known to occur naturally in five populations within a 14-mile radius in the Nashville area of Tennessee, it is a durable, low-maintenance perennial that forms sprawling clumps of narrow foliage and interesting upturned floral rays, similar to its Echinacea relatives in overall appearance. Tennessee Coneflower features narrow reddish-pink rays that extend outwards, facing east and tending to follow the sun. Flower heads are almost perpendicular to the ground, and have a slight cup shape due to the upturned shape of the rays. The genus Echinacea is derived from Greek echinos, meaning sea urchin or hedgehog, referring to the spiny center cone occurring on most flowers and giving way to the common name ‘Cone Flower’. 

Tennessee Coneflower was thought to be extinct until it was rediscovered in the 1960s, leading to it being listed as federally endangered from 1979 until 2011. It was only the second plant listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Today, the populations are monitored. Naturally found on limestone soils in cedar glades, dry rocky hills, or barrens. 

Cultivation Details: This low-maintenance selection is a wonderful addition to a cottage garden, serving as a butterfly nectar plant and attracting birds and other pollinating insects for food and nectar. Blossoms appear for about one month during summer. After flowering, prickly clusters of achenes will form that remain until early winter. Plants grow 2-2.5’ tall with 1-2’ spread. Tolerant of deer, drought, heat and humidity, clay, and dry, shallow, or rocky soil.  ‘Rocky Top’ is a seed variety; however, plants may reseed and not be true ‘Rocky Top’. Rocky Top is a more compact form of E. tennesseenis. Blossoms occur from June to August, and you might see some sporadic blooms later in the summer.

Growing Requirements: Tennessee Coneflower prefers to be planted in a well-drained site with full sun. Tolerates part sun, but does not excel in those conditions. To extend the bloom’s longevity, flowers can be deadheaded.