Full sun preferred by this short-lived perennial with abundant, dark purple flowers carried on leafy, branched stems. Native to the plains and montane zones, thrives in disturbed sites with coarse-sandy soils. Grows 1-3 feet tall depending on moisture availability. Blooms August to October when it is providing food for the needs of bees and butterflies in the fall.  Classified by Xerces as ‘special value to native bees.’ Synonym: Dieteria bigelovii