Purple coneflowers are pretty, which is easy to notice. Its wide petals and beautiful purple-pink color make it one of the favorites for many people. The plant has been cultivated in gardens for over 100 years in the United States. Purple coneflowers have a long blooming season that lasts for an entire summer. They grow in dry areas and can survive in partial shade. Three to six hours of sun is required each day to assure the plant grows healthy.

But what's more interesting about the purple coneflower is that it's more than just beautiful. The plant, along with other species in the genus Echinacea, is used by Native Americans to treat wounds, infections, snake bites and cough. The plant is also used in the pharmaceutical industry. You can find this herb in a variety of forms including Echinacea tincture and Echinacea salve.

But the effectiveness of Echinacea products to treat common cold is still up for debate; more evidence is needed to prove its potential benefits.

Here are some photos of this beautiful flower. 

About 'Plants & Nations' 

"Plants & Nations" is a series of articles and pictures about common beautiful plants around the world. 

For more articles, please click here:

Wollemi pine trees: A 'living fossil' that is critically endangered

Chinese skullcap: The plant that can treat respiratory infections

Golden-and-silver honeysuckle: A popular plant in Chinese medicine

Akebi: An exotic purple fruit

Spiky, but delicious!

What is the most powerful wand in Harry Potter made of?

What do gooseberries smell like?

An orchid that looks like a flying duck

Winterberry: A vivid and shockingly tough plant

Did you know marshmallows are actually plants?

Heather: The goddess of Scotland

Why is frangipani so common in Laos?

(All photos via VCG)

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at nature@cgtn.com.)