A perennial plant with a stout, bristly stem bearing hairy, alternate, linear-lanceolate leaves, which taper at both ends. At times the base of the leaf is winged. The leaf margins are toothed, top of the leaves lack petioles. A distinctive flower features I2~3O large spreading, dull-purple rays and a conical disk made up of numerous purple, tubular florets. Native to central U.S. in dry open woods, on prairies, road banks, widely cultivated.

It is a antiseptic, depurative, and digestive. The rhizome is a very effective immune system stimulant, without toxicity, stimulating the body's defenses against disease; also an antibiotic, and anti-viral which restores inflamed connective tissue, treats fevers, infections, promotes digestion. Historically it is a blood-purifier which helps in skin conditions such as eczema, acne, boils and may reduce allergies. Take 1 tablespoon 3-6 times a day of the decoction (1 teaspoon of the granulated root in 2 cups boiling water for 1/2 hr.) Combined with myrrh, it is said to help in typhoid fever. It is also used externally. Note: Do not use the rootstock once it has lost its odor. E. purpurea is used similarly.