Purple Coneflower

A North American native, Echinacea purpurea has a multitude of uses. It has been documented as one of the worlds most important medicinal herbs. It has been shown to increase the body's resistance to infections by boosting the immune system. Other therapeutic uses include relief from allergies and skin infections.

Of all the essential uses this pretty pink daisy-like coneflower has, my all-time favorite is as a supplier of nectar to butterflies, like this beautiful Black Swallowtail. It does not matter what I have in mind for my camera when I walk out the door, there is always a butterfly in my little blooming patch of Echinacea purpurea. Always.

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