From John B. Boyle and Evelyn W. Moyle's Northland Wildflowers

Purple Coneflower (Echinacea angustifolia) Description A perennial, usually 2 to 3 feet tall, of dry prairies. Flower heads have purple rays and a raised, spiny center. The slender stem and 3-nerved leaves are covered with coarse hairs. Summer Habitat and Range Minnesota: prairies, mostly in the west; general: temperate western North America. Comments According to Lycurgus Moyer, pioneer Minnesota jurist and botanist, early travelers on the prairie called it Thirst Plant because the roots had a "salty, peppery taste." When they were chewed, the flow of saliva was increased, relieving the traveler's thirst when good drinking water was not to be had.
White Snakeroot
Bouncing Bet