This is a purple variety of the popular Echinacea purpurea (or purple coneflower). Echinacea is grown commercially as a medicinal plant. As its generally used to stimulate the immune system. In the flower garden, Echinacea is a popular ornamental perennial, with tall daisy like cone flowers. Echinacea is a beautiful plant for the cutting garden and a wonderful border filler. It combines beautifully with a wide variety of garden plants. A real garden must have!