Why are my Purple Cone Flowers turning white?

Question

They bloom purple, well now more like a light pink. After awhile the blossoms turn white. Theses are plants I planted almost 20 years ago. I moved away and came back and found these 2 plants mixed in the pampas grass. I moved them roughly 3 and 4 feet from where I found them.We’ve had either rain or high 80s. During the dry spells I watered with miracle grow.other than something chewing on leaves which I remove. I dont know what else is wrong.They were always purple before.,

Answer 1

It is common for coneflower petals to fade to a light pink as they age. There are coneflower hybrids that bloom a true white. I suppose it is possible that your coneflower is from seed that was cross-pollinated with a white form. As prolific self-sowers random mutations or “sports” are also possible. If you are seeking a deep purple color, buy a new plant. Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to change the color.