'Ruby Star' is one of the best of the big, magenta pink Echinaceas. 'Ruby Star' is similar to E.'Magnus' in that they both hold their petals in a refined, horizontal arrangement, not drooping like the species. However, the petals of 'Ruby Star' are more substantial with a deeper magenta-red color.  They are loved for their large, daisy-like flowers which appear from midsummer thru fall, after many other perennials have finished blooming.  Coneflowers are a work horse in the summer garden.  If deadheaded, the bloom cycle will be extended.  However, some spent blooms should be left on the plants in fall because their seeds provide winter food for finches and other birds.  The dried seed heads also provide architectural interest in the winter.