The “purple flower” of the Purple coneflower is not a flower at all!
- krystal zuniga
- 0
- on Jul 14, 2023
The colorful part we see on the purple coneflower is actually a bunch of modified leaves called “ray florets” or petals. They form a beautiful circle around the actual flowers at the center, known as “disc florets.”
The “disc florets” are small tubular structures found in the middle. They produce nectar, enticing pollinators like bees and butterflies. These disc florets are the actual flowers of the purple coneflower.
Native to North America, the Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) is a beloved perennial plant. So, next time you spot a purple coneflower with its stunning “purple flowers,” remember that those petals are modified leaves called ray florets.
Author: Krystal Zuniga
Date: July 14th, 2023
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