A popular perennial with smooth, 2-5 ft. stems and long-lasting, lavender 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. An attractive perennial with purple, drooping rays surrounding a spiny, brownish central disk.  Can sow directly in spring or fall; If grown indoors in the spring will require a period of cold stratification.  Keep moist until germination occurs in 10-20 days.