A popular perennial with smooth, 2-5 ft. stems and long-lasting, pink to purple flowers. Rough, scattered leaves that become small toward the top of the stem. Flowers occur singly atop the stems and have domed, purplish-brown, spiny centers and drooping, lavender rays. 
Plant 1/2" deep. Direct sow in fall or start indoors in spring. Alternatively, can be winter sown directly outdoors. Keep moist until germination occurs in 10-20 days. Grow best with some cold stratification.